Collodion Baby

Collodian baby is specific term given to describe an infant born encapsulated in a firm, shiny membrane, similar to a plastic wrap. It is not a diseased condition, but a form of ichthyosis. The collodion membrane cracks down and peels over in several weeks, increasing the risk of getting infectious from micro-organisms. This is why collodian babies stand at a higher risk of complications, including loss of fluid, dehydration, instability in body temperature, pneumonia and electrolyte imbalance. Thus, they should be placed within a chamber of high humidity for the gradual sloughing off of the membrane, and thus monitored for any complications. Mild petroleum-based moisturizers can be applied to infants to feel comfy during the peeling off of the membrane.