[Pustular and vesicular skin eruptions in newborns]

Abstract

Four neonates with vesicopustular skin eruptions, 1 girl and 3 boys, were diagnosed with feeding blisters, bullous impetigo, erythema toxicum neonatorum and transient neonatal pustular melanosis, respectively. The neonate with bullous impetigo was treated with antibiotics; the remaining neonates were not treated. The neonate with transient neonatal pustular melanosis developed hyperpigmentation, whereas the other neonates recovered without sequelae. Skin lesions in neonates are common and frequently cause parental concern. Most causes of neonatal pustular and vesicular skin eruptions are benign and transient. However, some skin lesions must be recognised and treated rapidly. Therefore it is important to identify these neonatal skin eruptions based on a thorough history of the mother and child and clinical presentation. Skin culture may be helpful in some cases.