Diaper dermatitis is caused by over hydration of the skin, maceration, prolonged contact with urine and feces, retained diaper soaps, and topical preparations and is a prototypical example of irritant contact dermatitis.
Children with a previous medical history of eczema or atopic dermatitis may be more susceptible to diaper dermatitis.
Patients with diaper dermatitis present with an erythematous scaly diaper area often with papulovesicular or bullous lesions, fissures, and erosions.
Medical therapy for diaper dermatitis includes the use of mild topical agents, mild anti-candidal agents, and, possibly, topical low-potency steroids.