Pediatric Dermatology Update

Abstract

The Society for Pediatric Dermatology conducted its 15th Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA, August 8 to 11, 1990, and the Section on Dermatology of the American Academy of Pediatrics met during the Academy's Annual Fall Meeting in Boston, MA, October 7, 1990. Topics presented at these meetings that are of interest to pediatricians are presented in summary form below. MEETING OF THE SOCIETY FOR PEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY Advances in the Treatment of Infestations Head lice and scabies are common infestations affecting infants and children. Until recently, the preferred treatment for these conditions was the application of 1% lindane (Kwell) to the scalp in cases of pediculosis capitis, and to the body in cases of scabies. However, questions about lindane's safety and efficacy have been raised. First, neurotoxicity may occur as the result of systemic absorption of lindane during the treatment of scabies, though such adverse reactions have been reported only rarely and, in nearly all instances, were associated with excessive use of the product.1 Second, recent reports of lindanetolerant infestations have questioned the product's efficacy. As a result, considerable effort has been devoted to the development of newer treatments that offer enhanced safety and efficacy. David Taplin, Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Epidemiology and Public Health of the University of Miami School of Medicine, reviewed cutaneous infestations in children and emphasized the therapeutic advantages offered by permethrin. Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid, an agent related to pyrethrins, naturally occurring insecticides found in flowers of the genus Chrysanthemum.2 In the United States, two new permethrin formulations are being marketed, Nix Creme Rinse (1 % permethrin) for use in treatment of head lice and Elimite cream (5% permethrin) for use in scabies.