Skin pH and Transepidermal Water Loss Values in Children with Diaper Dermatitis in Ibadan, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Diaper dermatitis (DD) is one of the most common skin conditions in infants and young children. Among the factors associated with greater frequency of DD are high skin pH and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This study examined the prevalence of DD in healthy black children in Nigeria and evaluated the association between skin surface pH, TEWL, and DD in this population.

METHODS: The study was cross-sectional in design and involved children younger than 2 years attending eight immunization clinics in Ibadan, Nigeria (N = 424). Children were recruited into the study using multistage sampling. Information collected included sociodemographic data, diapering and feeding practices. Physical examination of the diaper area was performed on each child to determine whether dermatitis was present. TEWL and skin pH were measured on the anterior chest wall and gluteal areas of each child.

RESULTS: A total of 165 (38.9%) children had clinical evidence of DD. The mean skin pH and TEWL values were higher in the gluteal area than the anterior chest wall in all subjects, with or without dermatitis. The mean skin pH and TEWL were significantly higher on the anterior chest wall and in the gluteal area in children with DD.

CONCLUSION: In Nigerian children with DD, skin pH and TEWL are higher in the diaper area and at an unaffected skin site.