Acne infantum L70.40

Form of acne manifesting itself in infancy (3-6 months) (Serna-Tamayo C et al. 2014)

Acne conglobata infantum is a particularly severe form of acne in children.

Infantile acne must be distinguished from the so-called neonatal acne (Acne neonatalis), which is a frequent disease of the infant within the first 3 months of life, aetiogically as "Malazessia furfur" infection(Malazessia folliculitis of the infant).

Mostly unclear. Passanger increased testosterone release from the gonads is suspected. In any case, a differentiated endocrinological examination is necessary to rule out androgen-producing tumours. Also to be excluded are comedogenic cosmetics which are used for "normal" skin care.

Occurring in the third to sixth month of life. Boys are more frequently affected than girls.

Limited to the face, especially the cheek region.

Numerous, densely standing comedones, individual papules and pustules, but also inflammatory, deep-seated nodules that tend to melt down.

Acne venenata(contact acne triggered by comedogenic chemical compounds, primarily organic hydrocarbons). 

Acne neonatorum 

Neonatal cephalic pustulosis(also defined as a variant of acne neonatorum). After a latency period of 2–3 weeks following birth, newborns develop acneiform lesions—without any impairment of general well-being—characterized by the appearance of follicular papulopustules on the face, neck, and scalp. 

Mild skin cleansing, no superfluous local therapy, no greasy bases, external therapy with benzoyl peroxide (e.g. acne oxide) in lowest concentration e.g. 1-2% under observation for a few minutes, if necessary low doses of Adapalen 0.1% (Differin Gel/Creme).alternatively Azelaic acid (e.g. Skinoren Cream) can be tried.

Notice!

Pay attention to the concentration and duration of application of the active ingredients used, as the absorption rate is significantly increased in small children.

In severe cases one will have to resort to antibiotic therapy, e.g. erythromycin (e.g. paediathrocin) 2 times/day 125 mg p.o.

After months to years scarred healing.

Acne infantum should be the reason for an endocrinological clarification (exclusion of an androgenital syndrome).

1. Herane MI et al (2003) Acne in infancy and acne genetics. Dermatology 206: 24-28
2. Jansen T et al (1997) Pathogenesis and treatment of acne in childhood. Pediatric Dermatol 14: 17-21
3. Disc rider S (1967) Acne infantum. Z Pediatric medicine 99: 195-198
4. Serna-Tamayo C et al (2014) Neonatal and infantile acne vulgaris: an update. Cutis 94:13-6.