The systematic evaluation of the skin in children.

A large proportion of children seen by primary care pediatricians involve problems related to the skin. In this chapter, the importance of history and, particularly, physical examination in the diagnosis of various skin disorders is discussed. The ability to describe a rash using proper terminology will help narrow the differential and enable one to communicate what is seen to other physicians. The various primary and secondary lesions that may be present will be described along with various dermatoses as examples. Four common skin disorders that often fool the primary care physician are also discussed.