Understanding the root cause of rashes in kids for real and lasting relief

Children’s skin rashes can be a cause for concern. As parents, you may wonder if a more serious underlying cause or condition is to blame for such discoloration and irritation. ShadeTree Dermatology helps put parents’ minds at ease with expertise you can trust. Our Board-certified dermatologist in Cocoa Beach and Rockledge, Florida, Dr. Vanessa Johnson, takes a special interest in pediatric dermatology and has also built considerable experience and skill in evaluating, treating, and managing rashes. We need to understand the true nature of your child’s rash, as this understanding informs the development of plans that provide effective relief and resolve any underlying conditions. Below are four of the more common types of rashes that we see in our pediatric patients.

No. 1: Eczema

Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema affects 10% to 20% of children worldwide. It typically arises in infancy and early childhood. Sometimes, the condition persists into adulthood. It is most often associated with very itchy skin. As your child scratches to relieve the itch, small raised bumps can form that resemble other rashes (like chickenpox). For this reason, having any skin conditions evaluated by Dr. Johnson is important. Often, lots of skin conditions look very similar to each other and present with similar symptoms. We cannot effectively relieve symptoms and treat conditions when we do not understand the source of the problem or concern.

No. 2: Pityriasis rosea

Distinguished from eczema and other rashes by a large oval “herald” patch and several smaller patches and bumps, pityriasis rosea tends to affect children and younger adults. The larger oval-shaped and pink-colored herald patch appears in around 80% of patients with this rash. Usually, this big patch appears on the trunk and may be a precursor to the development of smaller oval patches and bumps later on. While harmless, pityriasis rosea may be accompanied by mild upper respiratory-related symptoms, and for around 50% of these children, the rashes may be itchy, too.

No. 3: Molluscum contagiosum

Unlike the above rashes, molluscum contagiosum can be passed from child to child via skin-to-skin contact or through items touched by someone with these small and firm bumps. While the bumps may look clear in the beginning, they can grow and become red and swollen with time. It’s important to take precautions to stop the spread of this condition, which can last several months to years. The bumps should be covered with bandages, and children should have their own personal items that are not shared with other kids.

No. 4: Hand-foot-and-mouth disease

In the U.S., this condition tends to be mild and most commonly affects children aged five and younger. It, too, is contagious and caused by several viruses that cause a variety of mild to moderate infections (known as enteroviruses). True to its name, HFMD is distinctive for its itchy rash on the hands and feet, as well as the presence of mouth sores. Any time your child is in close contact with another person with HFMD, there is a risk due to the contagious nature of this rash. It can be spread by touching a doorknob or toy that someone with this infection also touched.  

Of course, ShadeTree Dermatology regularly diagnoses and treats numerous other common and not-so-common rashes in children. If you are concerned about any changes to your child’s skin, contact us immediately at (321) 200-0346 to schedule an appointment at one of our two offices in Cocoa Beach or Rockledge, FL.

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