Rosh Pediatrics Practice Exam

What is a key sign of diaper candidiasis in infants?

1. Shiny red rash on the cheeks

2. Beefy red plaques with white coating

3. Dry and cracked skin on the hands

4. Scaling involved in the diaper area

The correct answer is: Beefy red plaques with white coating

A key sign of diaper candidiasis in infants is the presence of beefy red plaques with a white coating. This type of rash is commonly seen in areas where moisture is trapped, such as in the diaper region, as Candida thrives in warm and damp environments. The plaques often have defined borders and can present with satellite lesions—small spots of rash that appear slightly away from the main area of inflammation. Understanding this presentation is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, as candidiasis is a fungal infection that can lead to discomfort and additional complications if not addressed properly. Other signs, such as shiny red rash on the cheeks or scaling in the diaper area, may suggest different dermatological conditions, but the characteristic beefy red appearance with white coating is distinctly associated with candidiasis.