cradle cap
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cap
[kap]1. a covering.
2. a maximum budgetary limit.
cervical cap a contraceptive device similar to the diaphragm but much smaller, consisting of a cup that fits directly over the cervix. It is only 60 per cent effective for women who have already given birth.
The cervical cap is inserted much like the diaphragm. The woman should check to be certain that it is placed over the cervix. From McKinney et al., 2000.
cradle cap an oily yellowish crust that sometimes appears on the scalp of an infant, caused by excessive secretion by the sebaceous glands in the scalp. Treatment of mild cases consists of daily shampoo with mild soap. It can be loosened with an application of mineral oil or baby oil prior to shampooing. Called also milk crust and crusta lactea.
cra·dle cap
colloquialism for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp of the newborn, a red, waxy scaling seen in the third to fourth week.
cradle cap
n.
A form of dermatitis that occurs in infants and is characterized by heavy yellow crusted lesions on the scalp.
cradle cap
Etymology: AS, cradel + caeppe
a common seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp in infants, which consists of thick, yellow greasy or waxy scales that may be reddened. It may also involve the skin on the nose, eyebrows, ears, and skin of the trunk. Treatment includes application of oil or ointment to soften the scales and frequent shampoos. A weak 0.5% hydrocortisone cream can be effective in controlling the problem. Also called seborrhea capitis.
cradle cap
Neonatology A popular term for thick, crusty, yellow scales on infants ± 6 months of age, which may be the presenting, or only, manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis; the lesions may involve other 'seborrheic' regions, ie ears, nasal alae, eyebrows, eyelidscra·dle cap
(krā'dĕl kap)Colloquialism for seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp of the newborn.