Diaper dermatitis. Factors to consider in diagnosis and treatment.

Diaper dermatitis is a common problem in infants and young children. Although the pathogenesis of diaper dermatitis is not well defined, many associated factors have been identified, including individual predisposition to atopic or seborrheic dermatitis, occlusion and friction caused by the diaper, and overgrowth of bacteria and yeast. General treatment goals involve keeping the diaper area as dry as possible, washing the area as infrequently as possible, and avoiding tight-fitting diapers. Petrolatum, talc, baking soda, and fluorinated topical steroidal medications should be avoided. If all else fails, toilet training provides the final answer.