Athlete's foot?? Allergy???
I would like to inquire about pediatric allergies.
I have a son who was born in 2001 at 23 weeks gestation, weighing over 800 grams.
Recently, I noticed that the skin on his fingers and the soles of his feet has been peeling.
We first consulted a dermatologist who diagnosed him with athlete's foot, but the treatment was ineffective.
We then went to a larger hospital where they suggested it might be a plastic allergy, but the treatment has also not been effective.
I would like to know how to proceed, which specialty to consult, or if there is a specific doctor I should see.
Thank you.
Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/02
Dr. Lin Ruli reply Rare Disease
It doesn't seem like athlete's foot; please consult Dr.
Shih Yi-Hsin at our pediatric dermatology department for diagnosis and treatment.
Reply Date: 2007/01/02
More Info
Understanding rare allergies in children can indeed be a complex and challenging process. Your son's case, particularly given his premature birth and the subsequent skin issues, requires careful consideration and a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Firstly, it's important to clarify that skin peeling on the fingers and soles can be attributed to various causes, including allergic reactions, infections, or dermatological conditions. The initial diagnosis of "athlete's foot" (tinea pedis) may not have been accurate, especially if the treatment did not yield any improvement. The subsequent diagnosis of a plastic allergy suggests that there may be an environmental factor contributing to your son's symptoms. However, allergies can be tricky to pinpoint, particularly in children with complex medical histories.
Given the situation, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Pediatric Allergist: Since your son has a history of allergies and skin issues, seeing a pediatric allergist would be beneficial. They can perform specific allergy tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to identify potential allergens. This is crucial in determining whether the peeling skin is indeed due to an allergy and, if so, to what.
2. Dermatology Evaluation: A pediatric dermatologist can provide a thorough examination of your son's skin condition. They can assess whether the peeling skin is due to an allergic reaction, a dermatological condition like eczema or psoriasis, or another issue entirely. They may also recommend topical treatments or medications to alleviate the symptoms.
3. Patch Testing: If an allergy is suspected, patch testing can be performed to identify contact allergens. This test involves applying small amounts of various substances to the skin to see if a reaction occurs. It can help determine if your son is allergic to specific materials, including plastics or other common allergens.
4. Environmental Assessment: Consider evaluating your home environment for potential allergens. This includes checking for common irritants such as soaps, detergents, or materials that may come into contact with your son's skin. Sometimes, simple changes in products can lead to significant improvements.
5. Moisturizing and Skin Care: Regardless of the underlying cause, maintaining proper skin care is essential. Regularly moisturizing the affected areas can help reduce peeling and irritation. Look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free moisturizers that are suitable for sensitive skin.
6. Follow-Up and Monitoring: Keep a detailed record of your son's symptoms, including when they occur, any potential triggers, and the effectiveness of treatments. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing his condition.
7. Consider a Multidisciplinary Approach: Given the complexity of your son's health history, involving multiple specialists—such as a pediatrician, allergist, and dermatologist—can provide a comprehensive approach to his care.
In conclusion, while rare allergies in children can be complex, a systematic approach involving specialized care can lead to effective management. It's essential to advocate for your child's health by seeking the right specialists and maintaining open communication with them. Early intervention and a thorough understanding of potential allergens can significantly improve your son's quality of life.
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