Ammonia in the morning diaper has been demonstrated to be the breakdown product of urea in the presence of Bacterium ammoniagenes. Most methods of treatment of ammoniacal dermatitis have been aimed at inhibiting the growth of the causative bacteria. Neutralization of the ammonia as it is produced has effectively been achieved by rinsing diapers in dilute vinegar. It is suggested that this simple procedure be added to the usual routine in the elimination of ammoniacal dermatitis.
Submitted on March 20, 1962