ABSTRACT
In the neonatal period and early infancy, the skin’s defences are not yet fully developed, and it is much more vulnerable to chemical, physical and microbial attack. Medicaments are absorbed by infant skin far more easily and these, consequentially, are more likely to cause systemic toxicity. Erosive napkin dermatitis is the commonest type of napkin dermatitis. Red, glazed, fissured and even eroded areas develop on the skin at sites in contact with the napkin. Napkin psoriasis is an uncommon, odd, psoriasis-like eruption that develops in the napkin area and may spread to the skin outside – the flexural areas in particular. Eczema is a common problem in one form or another in the elderly. Seborrhoeic warts are found in virtually everyone over the age of 60 years and, although benign, often result in minor symptoms and some cosmetic embarrassment.
