Erythema toxicum neonatorum

Background

  • Benign, self-limited (1wk) rash that occurs in 50% of newborns
  • Thought to be problem with sebaceous glands within hair follicles

Clinical Features

Erythema toxicum
  • Erythematous macules develop on face, trunk, extremities
  • Spares palms and soles
  • Most common with full term infants, with incidence declining with decreasing gestational age

Differential Diagnosis

Neonatal Rashes

Evaluation

  • Normally clinical

Management

  • No treatment necessary

Disposition

  • Outpatient

See Also