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Itchy Bumps on the Skin in Children

There are several common causes for itchy, red bumps or patches on one or more skin areas. The conditions covered here are mostly limited to just a few bumps or to small areas of the body. Some of these disorders, however, may also involve large body areas, but these are discussed specifically under the Itchy Rash section.

The location on the body of the bumps often provides a clue to their cause. Genital bumps may indicate molluscum or scabies, while an itchy scalp may be caused by head lice, a fungus (such as ringworm), or a form of eczema called lichen simplex. A form of eczema on the hand (dyshidrotic eczema) and scabies affect the hands or feet, while an inherited condition, keratosis pilaris, usually affects the upper arms. Insect bites are typically found only in exposed areas that are not covered by clothing or hair. Sometimes, the type of insect may be deduced by the body location and pattern of bites. Flying insects bite any exposed area, and the bites are often sporadic, while flea bites tend to be on the legs in groups of 3 or more nearby bumps. Impetigo (a contagious bacterial infection) is common on the face but may occur anywhere, as may the viral infection called molluscum.

Click any of the itchy bump pictures below to help identify a specific health concern.

Bug Bite or Sting (Pediatric) Bites or stings from insects (arthropods) are very common. Most reactions are mild, and symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction to either the insect or the irritating substances (toxins) the insect…

Impetigo, Unclassified Impetigo is a common and contagious bacterial skin infection that is usually a minor problem, but sometimes complications may occur that require treatment. Complications of impetigo can include deeper skin…

Keratosis Pilaris Keratosis pilaris is a very common harmless skin condition appearing as small, whitish bumps on the upper arms and thighs, especially of children and young adults. Individual lesions of keratosis pilaris…

Dyshidrotic Eczema Dyshidrotic eczema appears as small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the hands and feet. It is not known what causes dyshidrotic eczema. Sweating does not seem to cause the condition…

Molluscum Contagiosum (Pediatric) Molluscum contagiosum is a common painless and usually harmless viral infection of the skin. Although molluscum contagiosum is painless and usually goes away after several months, some infections can…

Head Lice (Pediculosis Capitis) Head lice (pediculosis capitis) is a very common, highly contagious condition that often occurs in nurseries, day care centers, and schools. It is caused by infestation with the human head louse, Pediculus…

Lichen Simplex Chronicus Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), also known as neurodermatitis circumscripta, is an itchy skin condition causing thickened skin at the areas of skin injured by repeated scratching and rubbing. Lichen…

Scabies (Pediatric) Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny parasite (mite) called Sarcoptes scabiei that can live and multiply (infest) on skin. They are passed between people by prolonged skin-to-skin contact.