Acrodermatitis is an uncommon type of skin disorder that primarily affects infants and very young children. The condition typically leads to the appearance of brown or red rashes on the feet, hands, face, or buttocks. Most cases are acute, meaning that rashes appear suddenly and persist for just a few days, though the condition can occasionally become a long-lasting problem. Several different bacterial and viral pathogens are associated with the development of acrodermatitis. Specific treatment measures depend on the underlying causes, but topical and oral medications allow most children to experience full recoveries within a few weeks of infection.
Doctors are generally unsure what causes breakouts of acrodermatitis, but research suggests that rashes may be result of abnormal immune system responses to certain viruses and bacteria. Common pathogens that are suspected to influence acrodermatitis include the mononucleosis virus, hepatitis B virus, and influenza. Most rashes develop on the hands or feet, though red patches can also appear on the buttocks, neck, face, or arms. A rash may be accompanied by localized swelling, but it does not typically itch or cause pain. Some infants develop fevers, chills, and nausea, though such symptoms are more likely to be related to the underlying pathogen rather than the skin reaction.
A baby who has a rash should be brought to a pediatrician immediately to receive a thorough physical examination. After inspecting the rash, a doctor usually decides to draw a blood sample to check for specific pathogens. He or she may also collect a small piece of skin tissue for laboratory testing. After confirming acrodermatitis and identifying underlying factors, the doctor can determine the best treatment options.
A rash is usually treated with topical solutions and oral antihistamines to stop the immune system's inflammatory response. If a baby is infected with a recognizable pathogen, he or she may need to take additional antiviral or antibiotic medications. With treatment, a rash generally goes away in less than one month. The condition rarely comes back after treatment, though some infants experience chronic rashes that persist for several years.
In addition to the childhood variety of acrodermatitis, doctors recognize two other, more serious types that can potentially affect people of any age. Acrodermatitis enteropathica results from a dietary zinc deficiency or a genetic mutation that prevents the absorption of zinc. Another type, acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans, is a rare symptom that some people experience when they have Lyme disease. Both of these types can result in potentially life-threatening respiratory and neurological complications if they are not treated right away.
