Streptococcus Diaper Rash Often Differs on Each Individual Child.

Diaper rash or diaper dermatitis, a term used to cover several different skin rashes found in the diapered area on an infant, is apparent by scaly, red, painful skin. It can begin in infants as early as a couple months old but most often occurs in babies between nine and twelve month. Some factors that may contribute to diaper rash are irritation caused by feces or urine in the baby’s diaper, a yeast infection caused by Candida dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis. Streptococcus diaper rash or Perianal streptococcal disease is less common.

Streptococcus diaper rash, along with other forms of diaper dermatitis, often differs on each individual child. Some of the more common characteristics of diaper rash are:

• Candida dermatitis - This is a diaper rash, found in the folds and creases of the baby’s thighs, that spreads to the diaper area.
• Contact dermatitis - This diaper rash, usually found on the baby’s bottom, sometimes extends to the tummy, thighs and waist. A red, shiny rash, it does not often go into the skin folds.
• Seborrheic dermatitis -Usually pink in color, this diaper rash found in the groin folds, has appeared on an infants face, neck or scalp at the same time.

It is important to get your baby’s physician to diagnose the type of diaper rash and treatment for your infant. Some recommend drying the rash out by removing the baby’s diaper for a day or two. There are moisture resistant creams, medicated creams and anti-inflammatory diaper rash creams prescribed by your physician as well as some creams and products available over the counter. Streptococcus diaper rash is often more resistant to treatment so again, check with your baby’s physician before using any of these on your child.

Always keep your baby’s diaper area dry and clean, change their diapers frequently, air-dry diaper area occasionally and do not use harsh cleaners on your baby’s skin.