- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Deborah Z. Altschuler Lice Expert | ||
 |
My 3-year-old son seems to constantly have a small, circular, itchy bald spot on his head. What could it be?
Here is some information to try to help you troubleshoot. While impetigo can be associated with head lice, one of the most frequent causes of such superficial skin infections is an underlying problem with staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococci are very commonly found on healthy people, however some people may be more predisposed to infection than others. Impetigo can also be communicable from one person to another and family members may unknowingly be giving it to each other back and forth.
In terms of treatments, more and more bacteria such as staph are growing resistant to antibiotics. Therefore it is reasonable to also consider that the problem is not necessarily reoccurring, but was instead never successfully "cured" in the first place. All these possible contributing factors considered, a visit to the pediatrician or dermatologist is required. The physician is equipped to do specific tests that will identify the underlying cause of the problem and recommend what to do. Hope this helps!
Related Expert Q&A
- Can snacks be a positive part of my child's diet?
- My child won't eat anything without dipping it in ketchup. What can I do?
- My child dips everything in ketchup. Can this ruin a balanced diet?
- Can you tell me about the most common prescriptions given to children?
- What is the most commonly prescribed drug for allergies in children?
More Answers by this Expert
- How can I prevent my newborn from being infected with lice?
- My niece has continually had head lice for almost two months now and I am due to have my baby in about two weeks. Can my baby get lice from her holding him?
- What do I do to get rid of lice for good?
- My 8-year-old daughter has been invited to a slumber party. One of the girls invited had lice recently. Is it OK to let my daughter go?
- Are there certain times of the year that lice are more prevalent?