Collodion Baby: A Clinical Enigma

Abstract

Collodion baby is a term used for neonates in whom the body surface is covered by thick skin sheets, appearing like a translucent, tight parchment paper. This membrane is formed due to dysfunction of epidermal development resulting in epidermal hyperkeratosis. It is a rare condition with an incidence of 1 in 50,000-100,000 deliveries. The early neonatal period of a collodion baby can be complicated by hypernatremic dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, hypothermia and skin infections, resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis helps in optimal initial management and prevention of complications and thereby improves prognosis. Here, the present authors report a case of a collodion baby born and managed successfully in the institute.

Keywords

• hyperkeratosis
• ichthyosis
• harlequin
• lamellar ichthyosis