Infantile Acropustulosis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Infantile acropustulosis (IA)
is a condition that causes a rash on your child's hands and feet. The cause of IA is unknown. IA may happen after your child is treated for scabies.
Common symptoms include the following:
The rash usually appears at birth or when your child is 2 to 10 months. The rash may come and go over 2 years. It usually affects your child's palms, fingers, bottom of the feet, toes, and sides of the feet. The rash is very itchy. It may begin as raised, red bumps and become blisters filled with fluid or pus. As the rash heals it may look crusty and dry or leave a darker area of skin.
Contact your child's healthcare provider if:
- Your child has open sores.
- Your child's rash looks more swollen and is draining pus.
- Your child's rash does not get better with treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Treatment for IA
includes medicines to decrease itching and help the rash go away.
Help relieve your child's itching:
A bacterial skin infection or scars may develop if your child scratches or picks at the rash. The following may help relieve your child's itching:
- Give your child baths in lukewarm water. Add ½ cup of baking soda or uncooked oatmeal to the water. Let your child bathe for about 30 minutes. Do this several times a day.
- Trim your child's fingernails. Put gloves or socks on his or her hands, especially at night. This will help prevent your child from scratching his or her skin.
- Keep your child cool. The itching can get worse if your child sweats.
- Medicines can help decrease itching and help the rash go away. They may be given as a cream or pill.
Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your child's visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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