Paediatric Dermatology

Paediatric Skin Infections in Singapore

Dr. Liew Hui Min

accredited consultant dermatologist

Paediatric skin infections are common conditions affecting infants and children. These infections may be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, and they often appear as rashes, sores, or lesions on the skin. Prompt identification and treatment can help prevent complications and minimise discomfort. While most skin infections are mild, some may require medical attention, especially if they worsen or do not resolve with basic care.

Image Pediatrician doctor examining little kids in clinic

Symptoms Causes Types Diagnosis Treatment Prevention FAQ

Symptoms of Paediatric Skin Infection

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the infection, but commonly include:

Redness and swelling: Inflamed skin around the affected area, which may feel warm or tender.
Blisters or pus-filled lesions: Small bumps that may burst and crust over, often seen in bacterial infections.
Itching and discomfort: Persistent itchiness or irritation, especially with fungal or parasitic infections.
Scaly or dry patches: Flaky or peeling skin, typically associated with fungal infections like ringworm.
Fever or malaise: In some cases, especially with deeper infections, children may also feel unwell or develop a fever.
Spreading rash: Lesions that increase in size or number over a short period, which may suggest contagious or untreated infections.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several organisms and environmental factors contribute to paediatric skin infections:

Bacterial infections

Often caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to impetigo, cellulitis, or folliculitis.
Viral infections

Includes conditions like molluscum contagiosum and hand-foot-and-mouth disease, which spread easily among children.
Fungal infections

Ringworm (tinea), candidiasis, and athlete’s foot are common in warm, moist areas of the skin.
Parasitic infections

Scabies and lice infestations cause intense itching especially in sweaty areas such as hands, feet, genitalia.
Poor hygiene

Infrequent handwashing or sharing personal items can increase infection risk.
Skin barrier disruption

Dry, cracked skin or underlying conditions like eczema make the skin more vulnerable to infection.
Close contact settings

Schools, daycare centres, or sports activities can facilitate rapid transmission.

Types of Paediatric Skin Infection

Impetigo

A highly contagious bacterial infection causing honey-coloured crusted sores, typically around the nose and mouth.

Cellulitis

A deeper bacterial infection causing redness, swelling, and pain, sometimes accompanied by fever.

Fungal infections (e.g., tinea)

Circular, scaly rashes often affecting the scalp, body, or feet.

Molluscum contagiosum

Small, dome-shaped viral bumps with a central dimple, common in children.

Warts

Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), presenting as rough, raised skin lesions.

Scabies

An intensely itchy rash caused by mites burrowing into the skin.

Herpes simplex (cold sores)

Painful blisters around the mouth that can recur periodically.

Diagnostic Methods

Visual examination: Assessment of lesion appearance, location, and spread to identify likely infection types.

Medical history: Review of symptom duration, previous infections, hygiene practices, and potential exposures.

Skin swabs or scrapings: Collected for bacterial culture, viral testing, or microscopic examination of fungi or mites.

Wood’s lamp examination: A special light used to detect certain fungal infections that fluoresce.

Biopsy (rare cases): A small skin sample may be taken when the diagnosis is uncertain or if the condition doesn’t respond to treatment.

Treatment Options for Paediatric Skin Infection

Non-Surgical Treatment

Topical antibiotics: Used for mild bacterial infections such as impetigo.

Oral antibiotics: Prescribed for deeper or spreading bacterial infections like cellulitis.

Antifungal creams, shampoos or tablets: Treat conditions such as fungus or candidiasis (yeast).

Antiviral medications: For recurring or severe viral infections like herpes simplex.

Scabicidal creams: Medications that eliminate mites in scabies, usually applied to the entire body.

Supportive care: Includes soothing creams, antihistamines for itch, and advice on hygiene practices to reduce spread.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical procedures are rarely required but may include:

Incision and drainage: For abscesses or infected cysts not resolving with medication.

Wart removal: Performed using cryotherapy or other dermatologic techniques if lesions are persistent or problematic.

Prevention and Management

Preventing skin infections in children involves a combination of hygiene practices and skin care. Encourage regular handwashing, avoid sharing towels or clothing, and maintain clean, dry skin. Prompt treatment of cuts or insect bites reduces the chance of secondary infection. Moisturising dry or irritated skin supports the skin barrier and lowers infection risk. For children with recurrent infections or underlying conditions like eczema, a dermatologist can help guide long-term prevention strategies and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are paediatric skin infections contagious?

Many skin infections like impetigo, molluscum contagiosum, or scabies are contagious. Good hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals can help reduce transmission.

How can I tell if a rash is from an infection or another cause?

Infectious rashes often spread, show signs of inflammation (like redness, warmth, or pus), or come with fever. If you’re unsure or if the rash worsens, seek medical advice.

Can skin infections come back after treatment?

Yes, some infections, especially fungal or viral infections can recur. Maintaining skin hygiene, completing the full course of treatment, and managing underlying skin conditions help reduce the chance of recurrence.

Should my child stay home from school with a skin infection?

If the infection is contagious (e.g., impetigo, scabies), your child should stay home until adequately treated. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and school policies.

What should I avoid using on an infected rash?

Avoid using fragranced lotions, over-the-counter steroid creams without guidance, or home remedies that may worsen the infection. Always follow professional medical recommendations.

Dr Liew Hui Min

Dually Accredited Dermatologist In Singapore and the UK

Dr. Liew Hui Min is an accredited consultant dermatologist from the Ministry of Health and the General Medical Council UK.

Her clinical interest includes:

Paediatric Dermatology,
Women’s Dermatology,
General Adult Dermatology.

Having trained in major London Hospitals, Dr Liew returned to Singapore in 2014 as a Consultant at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) where she specialised in paediatric, women, obstetric and vulva dermatology. Currently, Dr Liew practices at The Skin Drs. clinic located at Gleneagles Hospital.

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