Obstetrics and Gynecology - A.M. Gromova 2000

Diseases of Newborns
Toxic and Septic Diseases of Newborns
Pemphigus

A special form of purulent Skin infection in newborns is pemphigus neonatorum. It typically appears on the 3rd to 8th day of life in weakened infants: blisters of varying sizes develop either on unchanged skin or against the Background of an erythematous spot, spreading across all areas of the body except the palms and soles. This is a crucial distinguishing feature for Differential Diagnosis from syphilitic pemphigus, which affects the skin of the soles and palms. The serous exudate quickly turns purulent; some blisters dry up, while others rupture. Epithelialization of the eroded surface proceeds quite rapidly. In mild cases, the General condition of the infant remains unaffected. However, extensive rashes may lead to deterioration, manifested by restlessness, lethargy during feeding, and fever. The disease can also take a septic course. Pemphigus is highly contagious and poses a serious threat to maternity wards; therefore, strict anti-epidemic measures must be implemented immediately upon detection.

Topical Treatment and skin care are of paramount importance due to the highly contagious Nature of the process. Daily baths with a potassium permanganate solution (1:10000) are recommended. The blisters are either incised or their contents are aspirated using a syringe. The surrounding skin is treated with aniline Dyes, a 0.1–0.2% alcohol solution of sanguiritrin, or a 1–2% salicylic alcohol. The resulting erosions are exposed to UV irradiation, followed by the application of ointments and pastes containing Antibiotics, such as Dioxicol, Dioxifen, Levosin, heliomycin, erythromycin, and lincomycin ointments.

Parenteral administration of Semisynthetic Penicillins is mandatory, as they inhibit The production of epidermolytic toxin and are effective against penicillinase-resistant microbial flora. Sulfonamides are rarely prescribed due to their insufficient efficacy and the potential for toxic-allergic complications. Along with antibiotics, gamma globulin and antistaphylococcal plasma are administered. In cases of intestinal dysbiosis, eubiotics (Bifidumbacterin, Bactisubtil, Lactobacterin) are prescribed. Vitamin therapy is also indicated, particularly ascorbic acid, Vitamins A and E.

Prevention relies on strict adherence to hygienic standards. Ward quartz-lamp sterilization is mandatory. Breastfeeding/feeding should be continued.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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