Acne neonatorum

Last Updated: 2020-06-15

Author(s): Anzengruber F., Navarini A.

ICD11: KC21.0

Neonatal acne.

Acne-like lesions occurring after childbirth.

Stimulation of neonatal sebaceous glands by maternal and infant androgens has been implicated; however, no significant transplacental transfer of androgens seems to occur.

Infant’s intrinsic hormonal milieu may play a pivotal role.

Hormonal stimulation of sebaceous glands that have not yet involuted to their childhood state of immaturity.

Lesions most commonly appear at 2–4 weeks of life.

Papules, pustules and (closed) comedones on the nose and cheeks.

Occasionally, these extend to the neck, scalp and upper trunk.

  • Medical history.
  • Clinical image.
  • Severe cases warrant investigation for underlying androgen excess.

Transient and self-healing.

Katsambas AD, Katoulis AC, Stavropoulos P. Acne neonatorum: a study of 22 cases. Int J Dermatol. 1999 Feb;38(2):128-30.