The skin is a large protective covering of the body that's responsible for exuding sweat when the body temperature becomes too high. It also serves to protect the body from the environment. Sometimes infants can develop bumps, cysts or spots on their skin. Usually, they appear at birth and are easily recognizable. Fortunately, a few neonatal skin disorders are not life-threatening.
Milia
The Mayo Clinic says milia refer to tiny bumps that form on a newborn's skin. It says these bumps are common, and about 50 percent of all babies develop milia. Specifically, milia refer to small, white bumps that appear on a baby's nose, cheeks or chin.
Milia affects girls and boys. It develops as a result of skin cells becoming clogged in the baby's outer skin layer. Fortunately, milia is not life-threatening but requires a doctor's attention if it remains on the baby's skin for more than three months.
Milia typically resolves on its own, but it's important to keep the baby's skin clean. The Mayo Clinic suggests the baby's face be washed with warm water every day, two to three times. Also, it's important not to aggravate the bumps, scrub them or apply any cream to them.
Epstein Pearls
Epstein pearls, also called gingival cysts of the newborn, are similar to milia. However, they're actually small white or yellow cysts containing protein that develop on the newborn's gums or palate. MedlinePlus says epstein pearls are common and only occur in the newborn.
In some cases, Epstein pearls may actually look like teeth when they emerge from the baby's gums.
No treatment is needed for Epstein pearls; they also resolve on their own. Epstein pearls typically resolve within one to two weeks after birth.
Mongolian Blue Spots
Mongolian blue spots refer to flat blue or blue-gray spots found on the baby at birth. Sometimes these spots are found after birth during a typical well-baby examination. MedlinePlus says mongolian blue spots are typically found in babies with darker skin. These spots are commonly found in East Indian, Asian and African babies.
Mongolian blue spots are typically found on the back, spine, buttocks or shoulders. MedlinePlus says these spots are usually 2cm to 8cm wide. Unfortunately, mongolian spots are sometimes mistaken for bruises, and the parents may be questioned about child abuse.
Like Epstein pearls and milia, mongolian blue spots require no treatment. These spots typically disappear by the time the baby reaches puberty.
