The probable gestational age of an infant with dry, wrinkled, peeling skin and no vernix is?

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The characteristics described, specifically dry, wrinkled, peeling skin and the absence of vernix, indicate that the infant is likely at a later stage of gestation. Vernix is the protective white coating that usually covers the skin of a fetus and is typically present in preterm infants. It starts to decrease as gestation progresses, particularly towards term.

In this case, the lack of vernix and the presence of dry, wrinkled skin suggest that the infant has been exposed to the amniotic fluid for an extended period, which is more typical for an infant beyond 42 weeks of gestation. After this point, the skin can appear significantly dehydrated and may exhibit peeling due to the prolonged exposure and reduced moisture retention, commonly associated with post-term infants.

Thus, the signs presented in the question align with physical findings characteristic of infants born after 42 weeks gestation, making that the most probable gestational age for the infant described.

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