A 36-hour-old term newborn has scattered yellow-white papules and pustules on an erythematous base over the trunk, sparing the palms and soles. The baby is feeding well and afebrile. Wright stain of a pustular smear will show which cell predominantly?
- A Neutrophils
- B Eosinophils ✓
- C Lymphocytes
- D Histiocytes
Correct answer: B. Eosinophils
Explanation
This is erythema toxicum neonatorum, a benign self-limiting eruption appearing on days 2 to 3 of life and resolving within a week. Its smear characteristically shows abundant eosinophils, which distinguishes it from staphylococcal pustulosis (neutrophils on Gram stain) and transient neonatal pustular melanosis (neutrophils, present at birth with pigmented macules). No treatment is needed once infection is excluded.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.