Transient neonatal dermatoses – Mostly physiological

Skin rashes are common in the neonate and can cause parental anxiety. Many of these are transient and physiological, but some may require additional work up to rule out a more serious disorder. Hence it is important for the pediatrician to recognize these physiological states that can present in a normal neonate. Mongolian spots, milia, miliaria, Epstein pearls, physiological scaling of the skin and seborrheic dermatitis are some of the commonest skin lesions. Cutis marmorata and harlequin color change are transient vascular phenomena seen in neonates. Acne neonatorum, erythema toxicum neonatorum and transient neonatal pustular melanoses are transient vesiculopustular rashes that can be diagnosed clinically. However neonates with unusual presentations or signs of systemic illness should be evaluated for fungal, particularly candidial, viral, and bacterial infections.