The Division of Pediatric Dermatology at Johns Hopkins is experienced in diagnosing and treating a vast range of childhood skin conditions. The faculty members are all dual-Board Certified in Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology, ensuring that you or your child is receiving the most up-to-date knowledge and treatment available. Faculty are also involved in research studies in a variety of different areas, including atopic dermatitis and vascular anomalies.
Comprehensive Pediatric Dermatology Services
Pediatric dermatology involves comprehensive diagnosis and treatment services for the unique skin of infants, children, and adolescents. While children and adults experience many of the same skin conditions, certain conditions are more prevalent in younger patients and require special care that takes into account the growing needs of these patients.
Common Pediatric Skin Conditions
Newborn Skin Conditions
Newborns are prone to many types of skin rashes, which may be alarming to parents. Although most rashes are harmless, several other rashes can indicate severe infections and constitute emergencies. Rashes associated with life-threatening situations include bacterial sepsis, meningitis, herpes, and autoimmune diseases like Kawasaki’s syndrome.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks are common forms of changes in color or structure of the skin. Birthmarks can be present at birth or develop within the first few weeks of life. Most birthmarks are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. Most birthmarks are harmless and will fade away on their own without treatment. Many may indicate the presence of another condition and alert us to careful monitoring of our patients, serving as markers or warning signs of systemic diseases. Others, especially vascular lesions, cause significant cosmetic concerns as the child grows older. Most important is the correct interpretation of “birthmarks” by an experienced dermatologist who can place them in the right context.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema is a common skin condition that also goes by the names atopic eczema, dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a skin condition that often starts in early childhood (although people of all ages can be affected). Over 50% of infants with atopic dermatitis grow out of the condition by age two. Atopic dermatitis can get worse when the skin comes into contact with irritating substances such as harsh soaps and scratchy, tight-fitting clothing. Our treatments are gentle yet successful, allowing children to engage in their everyday activities while efficiently managing their skin ailment.
Cradle Cap
Cradle Cap (seborrheic dermatitis) is a harmless condition common in infants. Red, scaly patches can develop on the skin of the baby’s scalp and will usually disappear within several weeks. Cradle Cap is not contagious and fortunately, it does not create discomfort for the baby.
Infantile Hemangioma
An infantile hemangioma birthmark is a red nodule of extra blood vessels in the skin (most infant hemangiomas are capillary hemangiomas). This type of birthmark usually grows during the child’s first year and slowly recedes over time. A hemangioma can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly appears on the face, scalp, chest, or back.
What is a hemangioma? Nemours KidsHealth
Expert Faculty and Referral Information
The Division of Pediatric Dermatology at Johns Hopkins is led by experienced faculty members dedicated to providing exceptional care.
Leadership and Expertise
Dr. Anna L. Grossberg
Dr. Anna L. Grossberg is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She specializes in Pediatric Dermatology. Dr. Grossberg is the Director of the Division of Pediatric Dermatology, as well as the Director of the Dermatology Residency Program and the Pediatric Dermatology Fellowship Program at Johns Hopkins. Dr. Grossberg graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University, and then completed her medical training at the University of California Los Angeles, where she graduated as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. She completed her Dermatology residency training at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, where she served as Chief Resident.
Dr. Joy Wan
Dr. Joy Wan is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Her areas of clinical expertise include pediatric dermatology and atopic dermatitis. Dr. Wan received her undergraduate degree in biochemical sciences from Harvard University and her M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. She completed dermatology residency training at the University of Pennsylvania and pediatric dermatology fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She also pursued postdoctoral research training in clinical epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Wan joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2021.
Patient Referrals
To refer a patient, please fax a referral to 410-367-2405. We request that referrals be made to "Johns Hopkins Dermatology" (regardless of subspecialty) to ensure that your patient will be seen at the earliest opportunity and by the subspecialist for the condition.
Preventive Care and General Skin Health
Children with healthy skin can also be seen by our doctors for regular examinations to learn about proper skin care, including adequate sun protection. Our staff is highly skilled and experienced in treating pediatric skin conditions and strives to provide a comfortable, safe, and worry-free experience for both child and parent. Our team provides thoughtful, expert care for all your skin health needs.
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