Intertrigo: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Intertrigo

What is intertrigo?

Intertrigo is a common skin disease, arising in places of contact and friction of the skin, for example in the groin, under the breast and in the folds of the skin. It is often caused by humidity and heat and can lead to redness., itching and discomfort.

Intertrigo affects the upper layers of the skin. It's caused by moisture, bacteria or fungus in skin folds. bright red, well-defined weeping spots and plaques are visible in the folds of the neck, armpits, in elbow sockets, in the groin, on the fingers and toes or on the back of the knees. If the skin is very wet, she might start to break down. In severe cases, there may be an unpleasant odor.

The disease is most common in humans, Obese. It can also happen in people, who must stay in bed or wear medical devices, such as dentures, splints and braces. These devices can trap moisture in the skin.

Intertrigo is often found in warm and humid climates..

Causes of intertrigo

Intertrigo is caused by a combination of moisture, heat and friction in skin folds. It can happen to anyone, but some factors may increase the risk of developing intertrigo, including:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Hot and humid weather
• Wearing tight or non-breathable clothing
• Poor hygiene

In addition to these factors, some drugs, such as steroids and antibiotics, may increase the risk of developing intertrigo.

Symptoms of intertrigo

Symptoms of intertrigo may vary depending on the severity of the condition.. Common symptoms include:

• Redness and inflammation
• Itching and burning
• Pain and discomfort
• Wet and crusty skin
• Unpleasant smell

Intertrigo can also lead to such complications., like bacterial or fungal infections, which may worsen symptoms and require treatment.

When to See a Doctor for Intertrigo

If you are experiencing symptoms of intertrigo, it is important to see a doctor. In some cases, intertrigo can lead to such complications., like an infection, which may require treatment. Besides, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as diabetes, it is important to monitor your skin for signs of diaper rash, since you may be at an increased risk of developing this condition.

Questions, which the doctor may ask

If you see a doctor about intertrigo, he may ask you a series of questions, to help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. These questions may include:

• When did you first notice the symptoms?
• Do you have other diseases?
• Are you taking any medication?
• You have recently started wearing new clothes or using new skin care products?
• Have you recently traveled to countries with a hot and humid climate??

The doctor may also conduct a physical examination, to assess the severity of symptoms and check for signs of infection or other complications.

Diagnosis of intertrigo

Intertrigo is usually diagnosed based on the appearance of the affected skin.. The doctor may also do a skin culture or biopsy, to check for signs of infection or other underlying conditions. In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to check for underlying medical conditions., which may contribute to the development of intertrigo.

Intertrigo treatment

Treatment for intertrigo usually involves managing symptoms and preventing complications.. Common treatments include:

• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Using mild unscented soap
• Applying topical creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and itching
• Use of antifungal or antibacterial drugs if infection is present
• Taking oral medications, such as antibiotics or antifungals
• Using medicated powders or sprays to reduce moisture and friction
• Avoiding tight or non-breathable clothing
• Wearing moisture-wicking clothing
• Using barrier cream or petroleum jelly to protect the skin
• In severe cases, a doctor may recommend hospitalization to treat these complications., as cellulitis, serious bacterial infection, which may be, if intertrigo is not treated.
  

  Treatment of intertrigo at home

  In addition to medical treatment, there are steps, things you can do at home, to manage symptoms and prevent complications:

• Keep the affected area clean and dry
• Use a mild, unscented soap
• Do not scratch or rub the affected area
• Apply a cool compress, to reduce inflammation and itching
• Use over-the-counter creams or ointments, to reduce symptoms
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Change clothes and underwear frequently
• It is important to avoid using home remedies, such as vinegar or baking soda, as they can irritate the skin and worsen symptoms.

Prevention of intertrigo

The best way to prevent diaper rash is to keep the affected areas clean and dry.. Additional Steps, what you can do to prevent intertrigo, include:

• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Avoid tight clothing or underwear
• Wear sweat-wicking fabric to wick away sweat
• Apply barrier cream or petroleum jelly to reduce friction
• Change clothes and underwear often
• You can also lower your risk of developing intertrigo, controlling underlying diseases, such as diabetes or obesity, and avoid triggers, such as hot and humid weather.

Conclusion

Intertrigo is a common skin disease, occurring at the points of skin contact. It's usually caused by moisture., heat and friction and can lead to redness, itching and discomfort. If you are experiencing symptoms of intertrigo, it is important to see a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment may include managing symptoms and preventing complications, as well as medicines, topical creams or ointments and home remedies.

Taking steps to prevent diaper rash, eg, keeping the affected area clean and dry and avoiding triggers, you can reduce your risk of developing this annoying and potentially serious skin disease.

Sources and literature

Dinulos JGH. Superficial fungal infections. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 13.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Bacterial infections. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 14.

Paller AS, Mancini AJ. Skin disorders caused by fungi. In: Paller AS, Mancini AJ, eds. Paller and Mancini – Hurwitz Clinical Pediatric Dermatology. 6th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2022:chap 17.