Cellulitis (Spreading Skin Infection) in Baby

Staph Skin Infection in Baby or Toddler

Staphylococcus (staph) is a common bacteria that lives on the skin and can cause infections when it enters through a break in the skin (cut, scratch, bug bite, or eczema patch). In babies, staph infections often appear as red, swollen, warm areas that may develop pus, boils, or honey-colored crusting (impetigo). Most minor staph infections respond well to treatment. However, staph infections can spread quickly in young children and some strains (MRSA) are resistant to common antibiotics, so prompt medical evaluation is important.

Boil or Abscess on Baby's Skin

A boil (furuncle) is a painful, red, pus-filled lump caused by a bacterial infection of a hair follicle, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus. Boils in babies should always be evaluated by a pediatrician. Never squeeze or lance a boil at home, as this can worsen the infection or spread bacteria.

MRSA Skin Infection Concerns in Baby

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of staph bacteria resistant to common antibiotics. It can cause skin infections like boils and abscesses. While the name sounds frightening, community-acquired MRSA skin infections are treatable with appropriate antibiotics. Good hygiene and wound care are key to prevention.

My Baby Has Impetigo

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection in babies and young children, caused by staph or strep bacteria. It appears as red sores that quickly develop into honey-colored crusts, most often around the nose, mouth, and hands. While it looks unpleasant, impetigo is very treatable with antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics and clears up within a week or two of starting treatment.

My Baby Has an Extra Nipple (Accessory Nipple)

Accessory (supernumerary) nipples are one of the most common minor congenital findings, occurring in about 1 in 18 people. They appear as small, flat, often pigmented bumps along the "milk line" — an embryonic line running from the armpit to the groin on each side. Most people mistake them for moles. Accessory nipples are almost always harmless and require no treatment. In rare cases, they may be associated with kidney abnormalities, so some pediatricians recommend a renal ultrasound if one is found, though this practice varies.

My Baby Was Born with a Raw Spot on Their Scalp (Aplasia Cutis)

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a condition where a baby is born with a small area of missing skin, most commonly on the scalp. It occurs in about 1 in 10,000 births. The affected area may look like a raw wound, an ulcer, or may have already healed into a thin, shiny scar by the time of birth. Most cases are small, isolated, and heal well with basic wound care — the area eventually forms a hairless scar. Larger defects or those associated with other findings may need more investigation, but isolated small ACC has an excellent prognosis.