Pediatric Dermatology Guidelines
Atopic Dermatitis
- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends patient education on trigger avoidance and proper skin care, medium to high-potency topical corticosteroids for 1-4 weeks for acute flares, and consider wet wrap therapy for severe flares 3
- Atopic dermatitis is characterized by pruritus, eczematous lesions, and typical distribution: facial, neck, and extensor involvement in infants; flexural lesions in all age groups 1
- The American Academy of Dermatology suggests proactive intermittent application of topical corticosteroids 2-3 times weekly to prevent flares, and topical calcineurin inhibitors for sensitive areas 3, 4, 5
Psoriasis
- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends topical corticosteroids as first-line therapy for localized disease, vitamin D analogs in combination with corticosteroids, and tacrolimus 0.1% ointment for facial and genital psoriasis 2
- Psoriasis is characterized by well-demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery scale, common locations include scalp, extensor surfaces, and trunk 7
- The American Academy of Dermatology suggests narrowband UVB phototherapy for moderate-to-severe plaque and guttate psoriasis, and consider natural sunlight in moderation when in-office phototherapy isn't feasible 8
- Methotrexate is the most common systemic medication for pediatric psoriasis, and cyclosporine may be used for rapid control of severe disease 6, 8
Congenital Melanocytic Nevi
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends regular monitoring for changes in appearance, consider MRI evaluation for patients with multiple CMN, and surgical excision may be considered based on size, location, and risk of malignant transformation 10
- CMN are characterized by pigmented lesions varying in size, may have irregular borders, varied pigmentation, and hair growth 10