Neonatal and infantile erythroderma

Neonatal and infantile erythrodermas are rare conditions defined as chronic, generalised erythema affecting at least 90% of the body surface area. There are different underlying possible causes and these are often different in neonates and infants. Erythroderma may be the inaugural symptom or a complication of a pre-existing dermatosis which then loses its own specific signs. Physiologically, erythroderma can be described as subacute cutaneous insufficiency and is a potentially life-threatening condition in infants. Consequently, immediate management in a specialized unit is required, the aim being to correct caloric and protein intake, proper balance of oral and parenteral fluids and electrolytes and to prevent and treat infectious complications.