What type of skin lesions are characterized by small, yellow or white papules on a newborn's face?

The correct answer identifies a condition known as miliaria, which is often referred to as "heat rash" or "prickly heat." Miliaria presents as small, yellow or white papules that typically develop on a newborn's face, scalp, and neck. It occurs when sweat glands become blocked, usually due to heat exposure or humidity, leading to the formation of these tiny lesions.

Miliaria is particularly common in newborns due to their immature sweat glands, and it generally resolves on its own once the infant is in a cooler environment. This self-limiting nature is a key characteristic, differentiating it from other skin conditions that may persist or require treatment.

In contrast, eczema is characterized by itchy, red, inflamed skin and does not typically present as small papules. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that appears as red, scaly patches rather than papules, and primarily affects older children and adults. Verrucae, commonly known as warts, result from viral infections and are usually firm and raised, differing significantly in presentation from miliaria. Understanding these distinctions can help in the accurate identification of skin lesions in newborns.