From the Research
Treatment Options for Perioral Dermatitis in Children
The treatment for perioral dermatitis in children can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the child's age. Some effective treatment options include:
- Topical metronidazole, which has been shown to be effective in treating perioral dermatitis in children 1, 2
- Oral tetracycline, which is considered a first-line treatment for perioral dermatitis, but may not be suitable for children under 8 years old 3, 4
- Topical erythromycin, which can reduce the time to resolution of the condition 4
- Topical pimecrolimus, which can rapidly reduce the severity of the disease, particularly if prior corticosteroid use has occurred 4
- Discontinuing the use of topical corticosteroids, which can exacerbate the condition 3, 4, 1, 2
Considerations for Treatment
When treating perioral dermatitis in children, it is essential to consider the following:
- The child's age and weight, as some medications may not be suitable for young children 3
- The severity of the condition, as more severe cases may require oral antibiotics or other treatments 5
- The potential for rebound when stopping treatment with topical corticosteroids 3
- The need for a treatment algorithm to assist dermatologists and pediatricians in managing the condition 3