Paediatric Infant Psoriasis

• Paediatric infant psoriasis is a rare but chronic skin condition in young children, causing thick, scaly patches and discomfort, often mistaken for nappy rash.
• Common triggers for infant psoriasis include infections, skin injuries, weather changes, stress, and certain medications, with genetic factors playing a significant role.
• Effective treatment for paediatric psoriasis involves gentle, fragrance-free topical treatments, moisturisation, and regular check-ups with a healthcare provider.
• Psoriasis in infants is diagnosed through a physical examination, and early diagnosis ensures better management and symptom relief with appropriate treatments.

What is Paediatric Infant Psoriasis?

Paediatric infant psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects infants and young children. Unlike typical psoriasis, which is more common in adults, paediatric infant psoriasis presents unique challenges for young children. Paediatric infant psoriasis sees a rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to thick, scaly skin patches. Although it is less common in infants than in older children and adults, it can still cause significant discomfort for your little one.

Signs of Paediatric Infant Psoriasis

Look out for these signs and symptoms of psoriasis in infants, early diagnosis can help with treatment. Common signs include:

• Nappy Rash: Psoriasis in the nappy area can be mistaken for a severe nappy rash. The skin in this area may appear bright red and shiny.
• Red Patches of Skin: Infants with psoriasis can develop red or pink patches of skin covered with scales. These patches might be localised or spread over larger areas.
• Thickened Skin: The affected areas can become thickened and raised due to the rapid skin cell turnover. 
• Itching and Discomfort: Itching is a common symptom, and infants may become fussy or irritable due to the discomfort. 
• Cracked and Bleeding Skin: In severe cases, the plaques can crack and bleed.
• Nail Changes: Psoriasis can also affect the nails, causing pitting, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed.

Causes and Triggers of Paediatric Infant Psoriasis

The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it usually comes from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition. Common triggers that can exacerbate psoriasis in infants include:

• Infections: Bacterial and viral infections can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.
• Skin Injuries: Cuts, scrapes, and other skin injuries can lead to the development of new psoriasis plaques.
• Weather: Cold, dry weather can aggravate psoriasis, while humid conditions may provide relief.
• Stress: Emotional stress can impact psoriasis, even in young children.
• Certain Medications: Some medications can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.

Paediatric Infant Psoriasis Q&A

How can you distinguish between psoriasis and eczema in babies?

Psoriasis typically appears as thick, red patches with silvery scales, often on the scalp, face, and nappy area. Eczema, on the other hand, presents as red, inflamed, and itchy skin, usually in the creases of elbows and knees. Eczema is more common in infants and often results from an allergic reaction or skin barrier issue.

What are the best ways to treat psoriasis in infants?

Treating infant psoriasis involves using gentle, fragrance-free topical treatments and moisturisers, giving short lukewarm baths with mild soap, avoiding known triggers, and possibly using prescribed medications for severe cases. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to ensure effective and safe management.

How is paediatric psoriasis diagnosed?

Paediatric psoriasis is diagnosed through a physical examination of the skin by a healthcare provider, typically a dermatologist. The doctor will look for characteristic signs like red, scaly patches or plaques. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Family medical history and the presence of any known triggers or symptoms will also be considered.

At what age does psoriasis usually start?

Psoriasis can start at any age, but it most commonly appears between the ages of 15 and 35. However, it can also occur in infants and young children, though this is less common. Paediatric psoriasis often requires careful management due to the sensitive nature of young skin.

Does mild psoriasis need treatment?

Yes, even mild psoriasis typically requires treatment to manage symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and improve the quality of life. Treatment often includes the use of topical therapies like moisturisers and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and maintain skin hydration. Regular monitoring and appropriate care can help prevent the condition from worsening.

What does pediatric psoriasis look like?

Pediatric psoriasis typically presents as red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery scales. In infants, it may appear in areas such as the scalp, face, and nappy area. The skin may be thickened and raised due to rapid skin cell turnover, and it can cause discomfort with symptoms like itching and occasional cracking or bleeding in severe cases.

What triggers baby psoriasis flare-ups?

Several factors can trigger psoriasis flare-ups in babies, including infections (such as colds or strep throat), skin injuries (like cuts or scrapes), environmental changes (like cold, dry weather), stress, and certain medications. A family history of psoriasis can also increase the likelihood of flare-ups.

Can psoriasis be cured in babies?

Currently, there is no cure for psoriasis in babies, as it is a chronic condition. However, symptoms can be managed effectively with the right treatment, which may include gentle, fragrance-free moisturisers, prescribed topical treatments, and regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to ensure ongoing care and symptom control.

What is the youngest age you can get psoriasis?

Psoriasis can develop at any age, including infancy. While it is less common in babies, paediatric psoriasis can occur in infants, typically presenting as scaly, red patches on the skin. The condition often requires specialised care and treatment due to the sensitivity of young skin.

Infant Psoriasis Facts 

1. It’s Quite Rare

Paediatric infant psoriasis is uncommon compared to older children and adults.

2. It’s in the Genetics 

Psoriasis often has a genetic component, increasing the likelihood if a family member has the condition.

3. Requires Special Care

Treating infant psoriasis requires gentle, fragrance-free products and regular moisturisation. Often a plan will be developed with a medical professional. 

4. Humidity Helps

Humidity helps keep the skin hydrated, potentially reducing the severity of psoriasis symptoms in infants.

References

• Children with Psoriasis
• A-Z Health Reference – Raising Children – Psoriasis
• Paediatric Psoriasis