Less common skin conditions
Skin infections in newborns are less common as they
will not have been exposed to them, but they can be
a result of bacterial, fungal or viral causes. Bacterial
infections are caused by S.aureus or Streptococcus,
fungal infections by Candida species, and viral
infections are often a result of herpes simplex
and varicella-zoster infection (commonly known as
chicken pox) (Hoegger and Harper, 1998).
Eczema and psoriasis tend to develop after
the newborn period. Psoriasis is very rare in the
neonatal period. However, around 18% of infants
may present with some symptoms of eczema
during the first month (Hoegger and Harper, 1998).
Treatments for psoriasis and eczema vary, but it is
important to hydrate the skin and emollients can
be applied topically or in the bath.