An Unusual Presentation of Erythema Toxicum Scrotal Pustules Present at Birth

Abstract

Erythema toxicum neonatorum is the most common dermatological condition of the newborn period with an incidence of 30% to 70%. 1-3 Metlinger described the rash as early as the 15th century. 4 It is a benign eruption with a variable presentation that has been reported to occur at lower incidence with diminishing gestational age and birth weight. 5 The precise cause of the rash is unknown; however, proposals range from an allergic phenomenon to mechanical or chemical irritation. 2,6 The rash may be present at birth 7 but more commonly appears on day of life 2 to 4. 8 It consists of pale yellow to white papules or pustules on an irregular erythematous base; it has been described as having a flea-bitten appearance. 9 Lesions can be found on any part of the body, although palms and soles are usually spared. There are no systemic findings except blood eosinophilia; counts