PARTICULARITIES OF NEONATAL SKIN – PHYSIOLOGY AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

The skin is a vital and multifunctional organ. Transition of the newborn from intrauterine to extrauterine environment is a complex process that requires a rapid and effective postnatal adaptation of the skin. The fullterm neonate has a well-developed epidermal barrier, while in the preterm neonate this is poorly developed, leading to high transepidermal water loss, increased percutaneous absorption, susceptibility to infections and vulnerability to trauma. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge with regards to skin physiology and clinical implications in full term and premature neonates.

Keywords

• neonatal skin
• newborn
• prematurity