Collodion Baby: A Rare Presentation and Its Comprehensive Neonatal Management in a Tertiary Care Setting

Collodion baby, a rare congenital skin disorder of cornification, presents at birth with a characteristic taut, shiny membrane encasing the newborn. While often a transient phenotype, it can signify an underlying autosomal recessive ichthyosis or other genodermatosis. With an estimated incidence of 1 in 50,000 to 100,000 live births, prompt diagnosis and meticulous neonatal management are paramount to prevent severe complications such as hypernatremic dehydration, hypothermia, and infection. This report details the clinical presentation and management of a 2.2 kg male neonate, born at 38 weeks 6 days gestation, diagnosed with Collodion baby at PES Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, a tertiary care center in rural Andhra Pradesh, India. We highlight the effectiveness of comprehensive supportive care, including a high-humidity incubator environment, rigorous fluid and electrolyte monitoring, precise temperature regulation, and proactive skin and infection management, in achieving a favorable outcome. This case underscores the challenges of managing such a rare condition and the importance of evidence-based, compassionate care in diverse healthcare settings.