How to prepare for a video visit about Perioral Dermatitis

Audience: pediatric

Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that causes a rash around the mouth, sometimes spreading to the nose or eyes. It often appears as red bumps, scaling, or mild swelling. In children, this can be uncomfortable and worrying for parents. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help make the appointment more effective. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, skin care habits, and any medicines used. They may also look closely at the rash through the video. This guide helps parents and caregivers get ready for the visit by explaining what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can provide helpful advice but is not a substitute for in-person medical care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Rapidly spreading rash with increasing redness and swelling — seek urgent in-person care.
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) with the rash — contact healthcare immediately.
• Pus or yellow crusting on the rash indicating possible infection — get prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of rash appearance and symptoms.
• Review of skin care routines and medication history.
• Providing general advice on skin care and treatment options.
• Determining if in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical skin tests or biopsies.
• Prescribing certain medications that require in-person evaluation.
• Managing severe infections or complications.
• Emergency treatment for rapidly worsening symptoms.

What is Perioral Dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes redness, bumps, and sometimes scaling around the mouth. It can also affect areas near the nose and eyes. The exact cause is not always clear but may be linked to skin irritation, use of certain creams or steroids, and sometimes allergies. It is not contagious.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit place where you can show the affected skin clearly. Have a list of any skin products, medicines, or creams your child has used recently. Be ready to describe when the rash started, if it has changed, and any symptoms like itching or pain. Having a family member help hold the camera steady can improve the view for the healthcare provider.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's symptoms and medical history. They will ask about skin care routines and any recent changes in products or environment. You will be asked to show the rash clearly on camera. Based on this, the provider may suggest treatments or recommend an in-person visit if needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child develops signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus, or if they have a fever, seek in-person medical care promptly. Also, if the rash spreads quickly or your child feels very unwell, an in-person evaluation is important.

Tips for Managing Perioral Dermatitis at Home

Avoid using steroid creams unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Use gentle skin cleansers and avoid heavy creams or cosmetics near the affected area. Keep the skin clean and dry. Follow any treatment plan provided by your healthcare provider carefully.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for the video call.
• Have a device with a working camera and microphone ready.
• Prepare a list of current skin products, medicines, and treatments used.
• Note when the rash started and any changes over time.
• Have a family member assist with holding the camera to show the rash clearly.
• Be ready to describe symptoms like itching, pain, or swelling.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan or advice given during the visit.
• Monitor the rash for changes or signs of infection.
• Avoid using any new skin products unless recommended.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if any red flags develop.

FAQs

What causes perioral dermatitis in children?

Perioral dermatitis can be caused by skin irritation from creams, steroids, or cosmetics. It may also be linked to allergies or skin sensitivity. The exact cause is often unknown.

Can perioral dermatitis be contagious?

No, perioral dermatitis is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person.

How long does perioral dermatitis usually last?

The rash may last several weeks to months but often improves with proper care and treatment.

Should I stop using all creams if my child has this rash?

Avoid using steroid creams unless a healthcare provider prescribes them. Use gentle skin care products and avoid heavy creams or cosmetics near the rash.

When should I seek emergency care for my child’s rash?

Seek emergency care if the rash spreads quickly, if your child has a fever, or if there are signs of infection like pus, increased pain, or swelling.

Sources

1. Perioral Dermatitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Perioral Dermatitis - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Dermatitis: Overview and Types — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Perioral Dermatitis: Clinical Review — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child’s symptoms are severe or worsen, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.