Collodion Baby
Collodion Baby
A collodion baby is a rare congenital condition characterized by a shiny, taut membrane resembling plastic wrap that covers the newborn's entire body. This condition occurs in approximately 1 in 300,000 births and is often associated with various forms of ichthyosis.
Key Points:
- Autosomal recessive inheritance pattern in most cases
- Associated with mutations in TGM1, ABCA12, and ALOX12B genes
- Presents at birth with characteristic parchment-like membrane
- Requires immediate specialized care in neonatal intensive care unit
Primary Features
- Shiny, tight, yellowish transparent membrane covering entire body
- Ectropion (outward turning of eyelids)
- Eclabium (outward turning of lips)
- Restricted movement of digits and limbs
- Flattened nose and ears
Secondary Features
- Temperature regulation problems
- Feeding difficulties due to restricted mouth movement
- Digital constriction bands
- Hypohidrosis or anhidrosis
- Respiratory distress due to restricted chest movement
Diagnostic Approach
- Clinical presentation is usually diagnostic
- Skin biopsy for histopathological examination
- Genetic testing for mutations in:
- TGM1 (Transglutaminase 1)
- ABCA12
- ALOX12B
- CYP4F22
- Family history assessment
Immediate Care
- Admission to NICU
- Temperature regulation in humidified incubator (60-80% humidity)
- Maintenance of sterile environment
- Regular application of emollients
- Monitoring of fluid and electrolyte balance
Ongoing Management
- Regular ophthalmological care for ectropion
- Physical therapy to prevent contractures
- Pain management
- Nutritional support
- Infection prevention measures
Common Complications
- Hypernatremic dehydration
- Impaired temperature regulation
- Sepsis
- Respiratory distress
- Corneal exposure and damage
- Contractures
- Digit constriction
Outcomes
Prognosis varies depending on underlying condition:
- Self-healing collodion baby (10-20% of cases)
- Lamellar ichthyosis
- Congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma
- Other ichthyosis variants
Monitoring
- Regular follow-up with dermatology
- Genetic counseling for family planning
- Long-term skin care management
- Developmental assessment
Disclaimer
The notes provided on Pediatime are generated from online resources and AI sources and have been carefully checked for accuracy. However, these notes are not intended to replace standard textbooks. They are designed to serve as a quick review and revision tool for medical students and professionals, and to aid in theory exam preparation. For comprehensive learning, please refer to recommended textbooks and guidelines.
