Desquamation in a postmature neonate

Desquamation in postmature neonate is very common. The postmature neonate is often born with cracking and peeling of the skin with much greater intensity than the full-term or preterm infant. Full-term infants usually have fine desquamation of the skin of the first 24 to 48 hours of life. Premature infants usually do not have desquamation until 2 to 3 weeks of life. These changes are transient and are resolved within the newborn period.

Differential diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for desquamation in the postmature neonate includes various forms of ichthyosis as well as hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia.