Perioral dermatitis in childhood.
BACKGROUND
Although perioral dermatitis has been well described in young women, little has been reported about this condition in children.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to define more clearly the features of perioral dermatitis in childhood.


METHODS
Fourteen children with perioral dermatitis were assessed for clinical features, therapeutic response, and possible etiologic factors.


RESULTS
Fourteen cases of perioral dermatitis were seen in 16 months, far exceeding the expected prevalence in childhood. Although the childhood variant shares many characteristics with the adult form, children often have periocular and perinasal lesions, as well as a higher relative incidence in boys. Mid- to high-potency topical corticosteroids were used in seven of the patients (50%) and likely contributed to the pathogenesis. All children responded rapidly to treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Perioral dermatitis in childhood, often iatrogenic, is more common than previously reported.
Manders
S M
SM
Department of Dermatology, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, OH.
Lucky
A W
AW
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008795:Metronidazole / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009055:Mouth
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D008795:Metronidazole