In a postterm neonate, which skin finding is most characteristic?

In a postterm neonate, which skin finding is most characteristic?

• A. Excessive vernix caseosa
• B. Smooth soles of the feet
• C. Cracked, peeling skin
• D. Elevated weight/length ratio

Answer: (C)

In a neonate born after 42 weeks, the skin tends to be very dry, parchment-like, and may peel or crack due to loss of vernix and thinning of the skin from prolonged intrauterine life. The most characteristic finding is cracked, peeling skin, especially on the hands and feet. Vernix caseosa is typically abundant in preterm infants, so excessive vernix would not be expected in a postterm baby. Smooth soles aren’t a hallmark here, and while some postterm babies may have various size aspects, an elevated weight/length ratio is not the defining skin finding.

In a neonate born after 42 weeks, the skin tends to be very dry, parchment-like, and may peel or crack due to loss of vernix and thinning of the skin from prolonged intrauterine life. The most characteristic finding is cracked, peeling skin, especially on the hands and feet. Vernix caseosa is typically abundant in preterm infants, so excessive vernix would not be expected in a postterm baby. Smooth soles aren’t a hallmark here, and while some postterm babies may have various size aspects, an elevated weight/length ratio is not the defining skin finding.