Rosacea in children: a review

Rosacea is a facial inflammatory disorder that shows an increasing incidence with age. While rosacea is common > 60 years of age, pediatric rosacea is uncommon. Diagnostic criteria are based on clinical symptoms. Laboratory investigations and histopathology are only needed to exclude other differential diagnoses. There are several subtypes such as erythemato-telangiectatic, papulo-pustular, periorificial, and granulomatous variants. In contrast to adult rosacea, phymatous subtypes do not belong to pediatric rosacea. A special subtype seen in infants and children is an idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to its pathogenesis. Treatment options are in analogy to adult rosacea classified into topical and systemic drugs. In the case of oral tetracyclines, discoloration of teeth and impairment of enamel are possible adverse events.Conclusion: Pediatric rosacea belongs to the rosacea spectrum but has peculiarities compared to the adult subtype.

Automated summary

Rosacea is a facial inflammatory disorder that is more common in older individuals. While it is rare in children, there are specific characteristics and subtypes for pediatric rosacea. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, with laboratory investigations and histopathology used to rule out other conditions. Treatment options include topical and systemic drugs, although oral tetracyclines may have adverse effects on teeth.