Erythema toxicum

Alternative names:

erythema toxicum neonatorum

Definition:

A benign condition of the newborn characterized by a central whitish to yellowish-white papule surrounded by reddened skin; the papule appears for several days and then disappears (evanesces).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Erythema toxicum may appear in 50 percent or more of all normal newborn infants. Its cause is unknown. The condition may be present in the first few hours of life, generally appears after the first day, and may last for several days. Although the condition is harmless, it can be of great concern to the new parent. There may be a few or many whitish papules and the associated erythema (redness) may be splotchy and extensive. The lesions are usually on the face and trunk, but they can also appear on other areas of the body including the upper arms, and thighs.