What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Benign Cephalic Pustulosis
• Cephalic Pustulosis
• Transient Cephalic Neonatal Pustulosis

What is Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Acne is a common skin condition in which inflamed red spots or lesions appear on the face, neck, shoulders, and other regions. It is mostly observed during adolescence
• Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is a subtype of neonatal (infantile) acne that occurs in children less than a month old. The condition is associated with colonization of a yeast species called Malassezia; it is not believed to be caused by maternal hormonal factors
• Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is a mostly temporary condition that resolves by its own even without treatment in about 7 days. The prognosis is typically excellent, and no adverse outcomes are anticipated

Who gets Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is described in about 10-20% of the infant babies; the average age range of onset is between 12 to 22 days
• The skin condition affects both boys and girls
• There is no racial or ethnic predilection, and the condition is observed worldwide

What are the Risk Factors for Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis? (Predisposing Factors)

• Presently, there are no well-defined risk factors identified for Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis? (Etiology)

• The cause of formation of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is currently unknown. No known systemic conditions or disorders are observed as being causative
• It may be associated with Malassezia colonization; Malassezia yeast is a type of fungi that naturally inhabit the human skin. However, the cause-effect relationship between Malassezia and Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is not well understood

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis?

The signs and symptoms of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis are as follows:

• Presence of numerous tiny red skin eruptions
• These are in the form of papules and pustules (blisters)
• Comedones (whiteheads and blackheads) and nodules are not observed
• The cheeks and forehead usually present the acne pimples, but it can be noted anywhere on the face, scalp, and neck region
• The condition may be aggravated by saliva/vomit on face, or on using rough fabrics
• Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis may not be itchy and painful

How is Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis Diagnosed?

• Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis is frequently diagnosed through a simple physical examination by the pediatrician or dermatologist. Visualization is usually sufficient, although it may be mistaken for neonatal acne
• Culture of skin lesions (pustules)
• Additional medical investigations may be necessary to rule out other infections

A differential diagnosis may be necessary to eliminate other conditions that present similar signs and symptoms such as:

• Candidiasis
• Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis
• Erythema toxicum neonatorum
• Miliaria rubra
• Neonatal herpes simplex
• Tinea faciei

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis?

Some of the complications of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis may include:

• Emotional and psychological stress for the parents
• Side effects of the local/topical applications
• Some cases do not respond well to treatment

How is Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis Treated?

Treatment is mostly not needed for Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis; however, the healthcare provider may consider treatment for severe cases. A management of the condition may be undertaken through:

• Wait and watch measures
• Use of topical antifungal applications such as ketoconazole creams

Avoid any OTC agents (creams/lotions) for acne in children, as the condition may get worse.

How can Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis be Prevented?

Currently, there are no available guidelines or measures to prevent Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis. However, the following measures may be considered by parents/caregivers to reduce its severity and/or prevent aggravation of the same:

• Regular washing baby’s face and body with mild baby soap
• Avoid perfumed baby products such as soaps or bubble baths
• Avoid scrubbing baby’s body and face
• Do not pinch or squeeze the pimples

What is the Prognosis of Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

In most cases, Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis reduces in intensity and resolves in a week’s time; while in some, it may take longer at about 3-4 months.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Neonatal Cephalic Pustulosis:

• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition

The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for acne; but, it helps to be clean and hygienic