Vernix Caseosa

VERNIX CASEOSA, cheesy lubricant, covers the body of the newborn more or less abundantly, mainly on the back, extensor surfaces, and in folds (under the arms, in the groin). Premature infants are covered by it more abundantly than full-term children, in whom it is often almost absent. Previously it was thought that V. c. is formed mainly from the secretory products of the fetal sebaceous glands and desquamated epidermal cells. Its purpose is to protect the fetus's skin from maceration and also to facilitate its passage through the narrow birth canal, after which it should be removed as it interferes with skin functions. Its composition consists of glycerides, cholesterides, and proteins (calcium was found). At present, there is a view of V. c. as a product of the activity of the amniotic epithelium. Keiffer, for example, believes that it has embryotrophic significance: it protects the child from harmful external influences and from rapid heat loss; it is bactericidal and may have nutritional value, being absorbed through the skin. Therefore, Keiffer advises not to wash off or bathe the newborn, which incidentally reduces the possibility of chilling. In those children whose vernix was not removed, Keiffer observed jaundice less frequently; they lost less weight. Markov and Kisin (Smolensk) did not note this effect on the frequency of jaundice. These interesting observations require further study. Probably most of the vernix is absorbed not by the skin but by the child's clothing, and its nutritional significance in extrauterine life seems questionable.