Recognising rashes in babies

Rashes in babies cause considerable concern among parents and healthcare professionals. They are very common and may be the primary reason for consultation or an incidental finding. Many rashes are physiological, marking the transition from the womb to the outside world, or reflecting the immaturity of the skin appendages or vascular physiology. In these cases, reassurance is usually all that is necessary. There are a number of rashes that reflect skin or internal pathology and, in these cases, further investigation and treatment may be required. Correct identification is a vital tool for healthcare professionals.