Desquamation in a newborn is a normal finding, especially in infants born late. Which description best fits this finding?

Desquamation in a newborn is a normal finding, especially in infants born late. Which description best fits this finding?

• A. In term infants
• B. In preterm infants
• C. In all infants
• D. In babies born late

Answer: (D)

Desquamation, or peeling of the newborn’s skin, is a normal finding as the skin adjusts to life outside the uterus. It’s most noticeable in babies born late-term or post-term because their skin is more mature and has less protective vernix; with less vernix, the outer epidermal layer can shed and appear dry for a short period after birth. This usually shows up within the first few days and resolves within a week or two with gentle skin care. It isn’t a sign of illness. While some peeling can occur in term infants, the description that fits best here is peeling that’s more common in babies born late.

Desquamation, or peeling of the newborn’s skin, is a normal finding as the skin adjusts to life outside the uterus. It’s most noticeable in babies born late-term or post-term because their skin is more mature and has less protective vernix; with less vernix, the outer epidermal layer can shed and appear dry for a short period after birth. This usually shows up within the first few days and resolves within a week or two with gentle skin care. It isn’t a sign of illness. While some peeling can occur in term infants, the description that fits best here is peeling that’s more common in babies born late.