100+ Free ABD Pediatric Dermatology Practice Questions

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A 2-day-old full-term neonate develops scattered 1-3 mm erythematous macules with central yellow-white papules on the trunk. Infant is otherwise well. A Wright-stained smear of a pustule shows predominantly eosinophils. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Transient neonatal pustular melanosis

Erythema toxicum neonatorum

Neonatal cephalic pustulosis

Congenital candidiasis

to track

2026 Statistics

Key Facts: ABD Pediatric Dermatology Exam

~200

Exam Questions

ABD 2026

~4 hours

Exam Duration

ABD 2026

Oct 15, 2026

Next Exam Date

ABD 2026

June 1, 2026

Application Deadline

ABD 2026

1+ year

ACGME Fellowship Required

ACGME/ABD

5 years

Post-Fellowship Eligibility Window

ABD 2026

The ABD Pediatric Dermatology subspecialty certification exam certifies pediatric dermatology expertise for dermatologists who have completed ABD primary certification and at least one year of ACGME-accredited pediatric dermatology fellowship. It consists of approximately 200 multiple-choice items delivered in ~4 hours at Pearson VUE testing centers. The 2026 exam is scheduled for Thursday, October 15, 2026, with application deadline June 1, 2026. There is no practice pathway — ACGME fellowship is required — and candidates remain eligible for five years after fellowship completion. High-yield content spans infantile hemangioma and propranolol protocols, PHACE/LUMBAR, stepwise atopic dermatitis therapy with dupilumab (age 6 mo+) and JAK inhibitors (12+), genodermatoses (EB, ichthyoses, incontinentia pigmenti), neurocutaneous syndromes (TSC, NF1), Kawasaki disease management, and pediatric exanthems.

Sample ABD Pediatric Dermatology Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1A 2-day-old full-term neonate develops scattered 1-3 mm erythematous macules with central yellow-white papules on the trunk. Infant is otherwise well. A Wright-stained smear of a pustule shows predominantly eosinophils. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A.Transient neonatal pustular melanosis

B.Erythema toxicum neonatorum

C.Neonatal cephalic pustulosis

D.Congenital candidiasis

Explanation: Erythema toxicum neonatorum (ETN) presents within 24-72 hours of life in up to 50% of term newborns as blotchy macules with central sterile pustules. A Wright or Tzanck smear of a pustule reveals a predominance of eosinophils. It is benign and self-resolves in 5-7 days without treatment. Transient neonatal pustular melanosis is present at birth, shows neutrophils, and leaves hyperpigmented macules. Neonatal cephalic pustulosis is associated with Malassezia on face/scalp. Congenital candidiasis shows pseudohyphae on KOH.

2A newborn African-American infant presents at birth with vesiculopustules that rupture easily leaving a collarette of scale and hyperpigmented macules. Wright stain shows neutrophils and culture is sterile. What is the diagnosis?

A.Erythema toxicum neonatorum

B.Transient neonatal pustular melanosis

C.Incontinentia pigmenti

D.Bullous impetigo

Explanation: Transient neonatal pustular melanosis (TNPM) presents at birth (unlike ETN which appears 24-72 hr after), is more common in darker-skinned infants (up to 5%), and shows NEUTROPHILS on Wright stain with sterile culture. Pustules rupture within 24-48 hours leaving a collarette of scale and residual hyperpigmented macules that persist for weeks to months. No treatment is required.

3A 3-week-old infant develops inflammatory papulopustules on the cheeks, chin, and forehead. No comedones are present. What is the most likely diagnosis and cause?

A.Neonatal acne caused by androgen stimulation of sebaceous glands

B.Neonatal cephalic pustulosis associated with Malassezia species

C.Miliaria rubra from sweat duct obstruction

D.Seborrheic dermatitis

Explanation: Neonatal cephalic pustulosis (formerly called neonatal acne) presents at 2-4 weeks with inflammatory papulopustules on the face WITHOUT comedones. It is associated with Malassezia species (M. sympodialis, M. globosa) and resolves spontaneously or with topical ketoconazole 2% cream. True neonatal acne with comedones is distinct and less common. Infantile acne (3-12 months) does have comedones and may require evaluation for precocious puberty.

4A full-term newborn has numerous 1-2 mm pearly white papules on the nose, cheeks, and chin. The infant is otherwise healthy. What is the diagnosis and management?

A.Milia — reassure parents, self-resolves in weeks to months

B.Sebaceous hyperplasia — treat with cryotherapy

C.Epstein pearls — refer to oral surgery

D.Molluscum contagiosum — treat with cantharidin

Explanation: Milia are 1-2 mm superficial keratin-filled epidermal cysts occurring in up to 50% of neonates, most commonly on the face. They resolve spontaneously within weeks to months without treatment. Sebaceous hyperplasia appears as yellowish papules around the nose. Epstein pearls are identical milia-like lesions on the palate. Multiple/persistent milia may suggest genodermatoses (orofaciodigital syndrome, Bazex-Dupre-Christol).

5A 1-week-old infant in a hot nursery develops clear, non-inflammatory vesicles that easily rupture on the forehead and upper trunk. What form of miliaria is this?

A.Miliaria crystallina

B.Miliaria rubra

C.Miliaria pustulosa

D.Miliaria profunda

Explanation: Miliaria crystallina results from superficial obstruction of eccrine ducts within the stratum corneum, producing 1-2 mm clear, flaccid, non-inflammatory vesicles that rupture easily (look like dewdrops). Miliaria rubra (prickly heat) is deeper with erythematous papulovesicles and inflammation. Management of all forms: cooling, avoiding overheating and occlusion — no pharmacologic therapy needed.

6A 6-week-old infant presents with greasy yellow scales on the scalp with erythema and greasy patches in the diaper area and skin folds. The infant is non-pruritic and feeds well. What is the most appropriate first-line treatment?

A.Topical emollients and gentle washing with baby shampoo; ketoconazole 2% cream to involved areas

B.High-potency topical corticosteroid twice daily

C.Oral fluconazole

D.Topical calcineurin inhibitor

Explanation: Infantile seborrheic dermatitis ('cradle cap') presents 2-10 weeks of life with greasy yellow scales on scalp, face, and intertriginous areas. It is non-pruritic (differentiating from atopic dermatitis, which is pruritic and on extensors/face). First-line: emollients, mineral oil for cradle cap, gentle shampoo. Ketoconazole 2% cream and low-potency hydrocortisone 1% are used for persistent cases. Resolves by age 6-12 months in most cases.

7A newborn has a well-circumscribed oval erosion on the dorsal radial aspect of the right wrist. No vesicles or surrounding erythema. Infant is feeding well and mother reports the baby sucks on that spot. What is the diagnosis?

A.Neonatal herpes simplex

B.Sucking blister

C.Epidermolysis bullosa

D.Aplasia cutis congenita

Explanation: Sucking blisters are solitary or paired erosions/bullae on the dorsal forearms, wrists, or hands of newborns caused by vigorous in-utero sucking. They resolve without treatment in a week. Important to distinguish from neonatal HSV (grouped vesicles, often scalp, systemic signs), epidermolysis bullosa (trauma-induced, multiple sites), and aplasia cutis congenita (usually scalp vertex).

8A newborn of Asian descent has a blue-gray patch over the sacrum and buttocks present at birth. What is the diagnosis and appropriate management?

A.Dermal melanocytosis (mongolian spot) — reassure and document in record

B.Bruising — report to child protective services

C.Nevus of Ota — refer for laser

D.Cafe-au-lait macule — evaluate for NF1

Explanation: Dermal melanocytosis (congenital dermal melanocytosis, previously 'mongolian spot') is a benign blue-gray patch over the sacrum/buttocks common in Asian, African, and Hispanic infants (up to 90% of Asian newborns). DOCUMENT IN THE MEDICAL RECORD clearly to avoid being mistaken for bruising and triggering child abuse investigation. Most fade by age 5. Extensive/extrasacral dermal melanocytosis may be associated with GM1 gangliosidosis, Hurler syndrome, or phakomatosis pigmentovascularis.

9A newborn has a pale pink patch on the glabella that fades with age. The parents are concerned. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A.Salmon patch (nevus simplex) — benign, fades in 1-2 years

B.Port-wine stain (nevus flammeus) — evaluate for Sturge-Weber

C.Infantile hemangioma — start propranolol

D.Nevus of Ota

Explanation: Salmon patches (nevus simplex, 'angel's kiss' on glabella/'stork bite' on nape) are the most common vascular birthmark, seen in ~40% of newborns. They are flat, light pink, and fade within 1-2 years (though nuchal ones may persist). Port-wine stains (nevus flammeus) are darker, well-demarcated, persistent, and unilateral — V1 distribution raises concern for Sturge-Weber syndrome with glaucoma and leptomeningeal angiomatosis.

10A newborn has a well-demarcated red patch over the forehead and upper eyelid in V1 distribution. What is the MOST important initial evaluation?

A.Ophthalmology referral for glaucoma screening and brain MRI for leptomeningeal angioma (Sturge-Weber)

B.Start propranolol immediately

C.Observation only

D.Topical timolol

Explanation: Port-wine stain (capillary malformation) in the V1 (ophthalmic) distribution raises concern for Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS), characterized by leptomeningeal angiomatosis (seizures, developmental delay, stroke-like episodes) and ocular involvement (glaucoma in 30-70%). Caused by somatic GNAQ R183Q mutation. Workup: urgent ophthalmology referral for glaucoma screening (lifelong) and brain MRI with contrast at 3-6 months to evaluate for leptomeningeal involvement. Aspirin is used for prophylaxis of stroke-like episodes in some patients.

About the ABD Pediatric Dermatology Exam

The ABD Pediatric Dermatology subspecialty certification exam is the ABMS-recognized board examination for dermatologists who have completed an ACGME-accredited pediatric dermatology fellowship. The exam is delivered at Pearson VUE testing centers and covers the full breadth of pediatric skin disease — neonatal dermatoses, atopic dermatitis and age-appropriate systemic therapy, infantile hemangiomas and vascular malformations, neurocutaneous syndromes, genodermatoses including epidermolysis bullosa and ichthyoses, pediatric infections and infestations, inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, and pediatric cutaneous tumors.

Questions

200 scored questions

Time Limit

Approximately 4 hours (computer-based)

Passing Score

Criterion-referenced scaled passing score (not publicly disclosed)

Exam Fee

Fee set by ABD at registration; comparable ABD subspecialty fees are approximately $1,800 (American Board of Dermatology (ABD))

ABD Pediatric Dermatology Exam Content Outline

18%

Atopic Dermatitis & Pediatric Inflammatory

Filaggrin barrier, TCS potency by site/age, tacrolimus/pimecrolimus (≥2 yr), crisaborole (≥3 mo), dupilumab (≥6 mo), upadacitinib/abrocitinib (≥12), tralokinumab (≥12), bleach baths, guttate psoriasis, pediatric biologic approvals

18%

Genodermatoses

FLG/ichthyosis vulgaris, STS/X-linked ichthyosis, TGM1 lamellar, ABCA12 harlequin, EB simplex (KRT5/14), JEB (laminin-332), DEB (COL7A1), RDEB gene therapy (beremagene geperpavec, prademagene zamikeracel), XP/NER, incontinentia pigmenti (NEMO), Netherton (SPINK5), Darier (ATP2A2), hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (EDA)

15%

Vascular Tumors & Malformations

Infantile hemangioma (GLUT1+, propranolol 2-3 mg/kg/day), PHACE/LUMBAR workup, RICH/NICH (GLUT1-), Kasabach-Merritt with KHE/tufted angioma (sirolimus + steroids), port-wine stain, Sturge-Weber (V1 glaucoma), PIK3CA overgrowth (CLOVES/CLAPO/KT), alpelisib

12%

Neonatal Dermatoses

Erythema toxicum neonatorum (eosinophils), transient neonatal pustular melanosis (neutrophils), neonatal cephalic pustulosis (Malassezia), milia, miliaria, cradle cap, sucking blisters, dermal melanocytosis (document), salmon patch vs port-wine stain

12%

Neurocutaneous Syndromes

Tuberous sclerosis (TSC1/2, ash-leaf macules, topical sirolimus), NF1 (CALMs, Lisch nodules, selumetinib/mirdametinib age 2+), Legius (SPRED1), McCune-Albright (GNAS coast of Maine), Sturge-Weber (GNAQ)

10%

Infections & Infestations

Scabies (permethrin 5% >2 mo), head lice (ivermectin 0.5% Sklice, spinosad), tinea capitis (griseofulvin vs terbinafine, kerion), impetigo (mupirocin, ozenoxacin), SSSS, eczema herpeticum, molluscum (berdazimer 2024), exanthems (measles, roseola HHV-6, fifth disease B19, HFMD A16/A6 onychomadesis)

Inflammatory & Systemic

Kawasaki disease (5-day fever + 4 of 5, IVIG 2 g/kg + aspirin), juvenile dermatomyositis (heliotrope, Gottron, calcinosis), IgA vasculitis (HSP), AHEI, urticaria multiforme, SJS/TEN/MIRM, PLEVA, Gianotti-Crosti, perianal strep

Pediatric Tumors & Pigmentary

Congenital melanocytic nevi and neurocutaneous melanosis MRI 4-6 mo, Spitz (HRAS vs ALK/ROS1/NTRK fusions), mastocytoma/UP (Darier sign, KIT), JXG (CD1a-), LCH (CD1a+, CD207+, BRAF), nevus sebaceus revised risk, pediatric MF hypopigmented variant, alopecia areata (ritlecitinib ≥12)

How to Pass the ABD Pediatric Dermatology Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: Criterion-referenced scaled passing score (not publicly disclosed)
Exam length: 200 questions
Time limit: Approximately 4 hours (computer-based)
Exam fee: Fee set by ABD at registration; comparable ABD subspecialty fees are approximately $1,800

Keys to Passing

Complete 500+ practice questions
Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
Focus on highest-weighted sections
Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

ABD Pediatric Dermatology Study Tips from Top Performers

1Memorize the propranolol protocol for infantile hemangioma cold: target 2-3 mg/kg/day divided BID-TID, monitor for bradycardia, hypotension, hypoglycemia (give with feeds, hold during illness), and bronchospasm (caution in reactive airway disease); always screen for PHACE (segmental facial) or LUMBAR (lumbosacral) syndromes before starting

2Know the age indications of atopic dermatitis therapies precisely: crisaborole ≥3 months, tacrolimus 0.03% ≥2 years, pimecrolimus 1% ≥2 years, dupilumab ≥6 months, tralokinumab/upadacitinib/abrocitinib ≥12 years — these pediatric age cutoffs are highly testable

3Differentiate the neonatal pustular eruptions: erythema toxicum (24-72 hr, eosinophils, benign), transient neonatal pustular melanosis (at birth, neutrophils, leaves hyperpigmented macules), neonatal cephalic pustulosis (2-4 weeks, Malassezia, no comedones)

4Master the EB subtypes by cleavage plane and gene: EB simplex (intraepidermal, KRT5/KRT14), junctional (lamina lucida, LAMA3/B3/C2 laminin-332), dystrophic (sublamina densa, COL7A1); know beremagene geperpavec (Vyjuvek) topical gene therapy and prademagene zamikeracel (Zevaskyn) approved for RDEB

5Memorize Kawasaki disease: fever ≥5 days + 4 of 5 (conjunctivitis, oral changes/strawberry tongue, polymorphous rash, extremity changes/desquamation, cervical node ≥1.5 cm); treat with IVIG 2 g/kg single infusion + high-dose aspirin, echocardiogram at diagnosis, 1-2 wk, and 4-6 wk for coronary aneurysms

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the ABD Pediatric Dermatology subspecialty exam?

Candidates must hold active primary certification in Dermatology from the American Board of Dermatology, have a currently valid full and unrestricted medical license in the U.S. or Canada, and have completed at least one year of ACGME-accredited Pediatric Dermatology fellowship training. There is no practice pathway — ACGME fellowship completion is required. Candidates remain eligible for certification for five years after completing fellowship.

How is the ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam structured?

The exam is approximately four hours long and consists of approximately 200 multiple-choice items delivered at Pearson VUE test centers. Items are image-rich, reflecting pediatric dermatology practice, and cover neonatal dermatoses, atopic dermatitis, infantile hemangioma and vascular anomalies, genodermatoses, neurocutaneous syndromes, pediatric infections, inflammatory disease, and cutaneous tumors.

When is the 2026 ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam?

The 2026 ABD Pediatric Dermatology Subspecialty Certification exam is scheduled for Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Pearson VUE testing centers. The application window opens in April 2026, with a deadline of June 1, 2026. Candidates should confirm exact fees and deadlines directly on the abderm.org calendar page.

What is the passing score for the ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam?

The ABD uses a criterion-referenced scaled passing score set through standard-setting methodology. The passing score is not publicly disclosed as a percentage, and the ABD does not publish an overall pass rate, but it does publish the list of candidates who passed each recent exam on abderm.org.

How much does the ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam cost?

The exam fee is set by the ABD at the time of registration. Comparable ABD subspecialty exams (such as Dermatopathology) have been priced at approximately $1,800. Candidates should confirm the exact fee on the ABD website when registering, and should also budget for review courses, travel to the Pearson VUE site, and study materials.

What topics are emphasized on the ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam?

High-yield topics include infantile hemangioma with propranolol dosing and PHACE/LUMBAR evaluation, atopic dermatitis stepwise therapy including dupilumab (approved ≥6 months), genodermatoses including the main epidermolysis bullosa types and ichthyoses, neurocutaneous syndromes (tuberous sclerosis, NF1, Sturge-Weber, McCune-Albright, Legius), pediatric infections (Kawasaki disease, SSSS, viral exanthems), and pediatric tumors such as congenital melanocytic nevi and mastocytomas.

How long should I study for the ABD Pediatric Dermatology exam?

Most candidates study 150 to 250 hours over 4 to 6 months alongside their pediatric dermatology fellowship. A typical study stack includes Paller and Mancini's Hurwitz Clinical Pediatric Dermatology, the Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) annual meetings, Bolognia pediatric chapters, image review, and board review question banks. Your clinical exposure during fellowship is the single strongest predictor of exam success.

How do I maintain ABD Pediatric Dermatology certification?

ABD diplomates participate in ABD continuing certification activities, which have moved to a longitudinal assessment model (CertLink) rather than a single high-stakes MOC exam. Diplomates must maintain primary dermatology certification, meet CME requirements, and complete periodic assessment components specific to pediatric dermatology.