Skin Irritation from Dry Cord

The redness superior to the umbilical cord in this photo is simply irritation from the hard, dry umbilical stump rubbing against the abdomen. Because omphalitis (an infection of the cord itself) is a dangerous condition, redness in this area should be carefully evaluated. However, the localized nature of the redness here, along with the fact that it is somehat removed from the actual insertion of the cord and appears very superficial is reassuring that infection is not the underlying etiology.

photo by Janelle Aby, MD