What are the common symptoms of intertrigo. How can you prevent intertrigo from developing. What treatments are most effective for managing intertrigo. Who is at higher risk for developing this skin condition. How is intertrigo diagnosed by medical professionals.

Understanding Intertrigo: A Common Skin Fold Condition

Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin condition that develops in areas where skin folds rub together, creating a warm, moist environment. This friction and moisture can lead to skin breakdown, inflammation, and vulnerability to secondary infections. While often uncomfortable, intertrigo is a manageable condition with proper care and treatment.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Intertrigo

Identifying intertrigo early can help prevent complications and discomfort. The most common symptoms include:

• Red or reddish-brown rash in skin folds
• Itching or burning sensation
• Raw, oozing, or macerated skin
• Unpleasant odor in severe cases
• Cracked or bleeding skin in advanced stages

These symptoms typically appear in areas where skin-to-skin contact is frequent, such as:

• Armpits
• Under breasts
• Groin area
• Between toes
• Neck creases
• Abdominal folds
• Between buttocks

Can intertrigo occur in children?

Yes, intertrigo can affect people of all ages, including children. In infants, it often manifests as diaper rash. Proper hygiene and frequent diaper changes can help prevent and manage intertrigo in babies.

Exploring the Causes of Intertrigo

Intertrigo develops due to a combination of factors that create an ideal environment for skin irritation and infection. The primary causes include:

1. Friction between skin folds
2. Excessive moisture trapped in skin creases
3. Lack of air circulation
4. Heat accumulation in skin folds
5. Presence of irritants like sweat, urine, or feces

These conditions create a perfect breeding ground for microorganisms, leading to secondary infections that can exacerbate the condition.

Which microorganisms commonly cause secondary infections in intertrigo?

The most frequent culprits of secondary infections in intertrigo cases are:

• Candida albicans (yeast)
• Dermatophytes (fungal infections)
• Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria

Identifying Risk Factors for Intertrigo

While intertrigo can affect anyone, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

• Obesity or overweight status
• Diabetes
• Hot and humid climates
• Poor hygiene practices
• Weakened immune system
• Use of certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, corticosteroids)
• Wearing tight clothing or non-breathable fabrics
• Use of orthopedic devices (splints, braces, artificial limbs)

Is intertrigo contagious?

No, intertrigo itself is not contagious. You cannot catch it from or transmit it to another person. However, secondary infections that may develop in intertrigo-affected areas could potentially be transmissible, depending on the specific pathogen involved.

Diagnosing Intertrigo: Medical Approaches

Proper diagnosis of intertrigo is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers typically employ the following methods:

1. Visual examination of the affected area
2. Review of medical history and symptoms
3. Skin scraping or swab for microscopic examination
4. Culture tests to identify any secondary infections
5. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary

Are special tests required to diagnose intertrigo?

In most cases, a healthcare provider can diagnose intertrigo through visual examination alone. However, if a secondary infection is suspected, additional tests like skin scrapings or cultures may be necessary to identify the specific microorganism involved and guide treatment decisions.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Intertrigo

Managing intertrigo involves a multi-faceted approach aimed at reducing inflammation, preventing secondary infections, and promoting skin healing. Treatment options may include:

• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Applying barrier creams or powders to reduce friction
• Using topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Applying antifungal or antibacterial medications for secondary infections
• In severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed
• Using absorptive powders to keep the area dry
• Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing

How long does it take for intertrigo to heal with proper treatment?

The healing time for intertrigo can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper care and adherence to treatment plans, mild cases may improve within a few days to a week. More severe cases or those complicated by secondary infections may take several weeks to fully resolve.

Preventing Intertrigo: Proactive Measures

Taking steps to prevent intertrigo can significantly reduce your risk of developing this uncomfortable condition. Consider implementing the following preventive measures:

1. Maintain good hygiene practices, especially in skin fold areas
2. Keep skin folds dry and exposed to air when possible
3. Use moisture-wicking fabrics and avoid tight clothing
4. Apply antiperspirants or drying powders in prone areas
5. Lose weight if overweight or obese
6. Manage underlying conditions like diabetes effectively
7. Change out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly
8. Use a hair dryer on a cool setting to dry hard-to-reach areas after bathing

Can dietary changes help prevent intertrigo?

While there’s no specific diet to prevent intertrigo, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can support overall skin health and immune function. Staying hydrated and consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E may contribute to skin resilience. Additionally, for those who are overweight, a nutritious diet supporting weight loss can help reduce the risk of intertrigo in skin folds.

Living with Intertrigo: Long-term Management

For individuals prone to intertrigo, long-term management is key to preventing recurrences and maintaining skin health. Consider the following strategies:

• Develop a daily skincare routine focusing on prone areas
• Use preventive measures before engaging in physical activities
• Monitor skin folds regularly for early signs of irritation
• Address any underlying health conditions that may contribute to intertrigo
• Consult with a dermatologist for personalized prevention strategies
• Consider using moisture-absorbing undergarments or clothing

Are there any natural remedies effective for managing intertrigo?

While medical treatments are often necessary, some natural remedies may help manage mild cases of intertrigo or complement prescribed treatments:

• Apple cider vinegar diluted with water as an antimicrobial wash
• Tea tree oil mixed with a carrier oil for its antifungal properties
• Coconut oil as a natural moisturizer with antimicrobial effects
• Aloe vera gel for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties

Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying natural remedies, especially if you have ongoing intertrigo or are prone to skin infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Intertrigo

While mild cases of intertrigo can often be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home care
• Signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
• Fever or chills accompanying the skin rash
• Severe pain or discomfort in the affected area
• Spreading of the rash beyond its initial location
• Development of open sores or bleeding
• Recurrent episodes of intertrigo

Can untreated intertrigo lead to more serious complications?

Yes, if left untreated, intertrigo can potentially lead to more serious complications. These may include:

1. Cellulitis (bacterial skin infection)
2. Systemic fungal infections
3. Chronic skin changes and scarring
4. Reduced quality of life due to persistent discomfort

Prompt treatment and proper management can help prevent these complications and promote faster healing.

Intertrigo in Special Populations: Considerations and Approaches

Certain groups may require special attention when it comes to preventing and managing intertrigo:

Elderly Individuals

Older adults may be more susceptible to intertrigo due to decreased skin elasticity and mobility issues. Care strategies include:

• Regular skin checks, especially in less visible areas
• Use of protective skin barriers
• Assistance with proper hygiene if mobility is limited

People with Disabilities

Those with limited mobility or who use assistive devices may be at higher risk. Considerations include:

• Regular repositioning to reduce prolonged skin-to-skin contact
• Proper fitting and maintenance of prosthetics or braces
• Use of moisture-wicking materials in contact areas

Athletes and Active Individuals

People who engage in frequent physical activity may need to take extra precautions:

• Use of appropriate moisture-wicking sportswear
• Prompt showering and thorough drying after exercise
• Application of preventive powders or creams before activities

How does managing intertrigo differ in these special populations?

Management of intertrigo in special populations often requires a more proactive and collaborative approach. This may involve:

1. Regular consultations with healthcare providers
2. Involvement of caregivers in skin care routines
3. Adaptation of prevention strategies to individual needs and lifestyles
4. More frequent skin checks and assessments
5. Use of specialized products designed for sensitive or at-risk skin

By tailoring prevention and treatment strategies to the specific needs of these populations, the risk and impact of intertrigo can be significantly reduced.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Intertrigo Management

As our understanding of skin health and microbial interactions evolves, new approaches to managing intertrigo are emerging. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of advanced moisture-wicking fabrics
• Investigation of probiotic treatments for skin health
• Exploration of novel antimicrobial compounds
• Studies on the skin microbiome and its role in intertrigo
• Research into genetic factors influencing susceptibility to skin fold conditions

What promising new treatments for intertrigo are on the horizon?

While research is ongoing, several promising avenues for future intertrigo treatments are being explored:

1. Microbiome-based therapies to promote beneficial skin bacteria
2. Nanotechnology-enhanced topical treatments for improved delivery
3. Personalized skincare regimens based on individual microbiome profiles
4. Advanced wound dressings with antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties
5. Gene therapy approaches for those with genetic predispositions to skin conditions

These potential advancements could revolutionize the prevention and treatment of intertrigo, offering more effective and personalized options for those affected by this common skin condition.

Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention

What is intertrigo?

Intertrigo is a rash that usually affects the folds of the skin, where the skin rubs together or where it is often moist. This rubbing can cause a breakdown in the top layers of the skin, causing inflammation and a rash. The breakdown of skin makes it easier for bacteria or fungus to develop in this area. It can make the rash worse.

Intertrigo is most common in people who are overweight or who have diabetes. People who have splints, braces, or artificial limbs are also more likely to develop this rash.

Symptoms of intertrigo

Symptoms include a red or reddish-brown rash that can appear anywhere skin rubs together or traps wetness. This rash may burn or itch. The most common areas include:

• Between toes
• In the armpits
• In the groin area
• On the underside of the belly or breasts
• In the crease of the neck

Intertrigo can also affect the skin between the buttocks. The affected skin will often be very raw and may itch or ooze. In severe cases, intertrigo may cause a foul odor, and the skin may crack and bleed.

What causes intertrigo?

Skin folds sitting together and rubbing together causes intertrigo. This skin-on-skin friction creates a warm, moist environment. This environment invites an overgrowth of yeast, fungus, and bacteria. Intertrigo is not contagious. You cannot catch it from or pass it to another person.

How is intertrigo diagnosed?

The best way to know for sure is to ask your doctor. Your doctor will be able to tell if you have the rash by looking at your skin. No special tests are needed but your doctor may take a sample to determine what type of bacteria or fungus may be present.

Can intertrigo be prevented or avoided?

You can help prevent intertrigo by doing these things:

• Keep skin cool and dry.
• Do not wear tight shoes or clothing. Wear a bra that has good support.
• Wear clothes made with absorbent fabrics, such as cotton. Avoid nylon or other synthetic (manmade) fibers.
• If you are overweight, try to lose weight.
• After exercising, shower and dry off completely. Use a hair dryer with a cool setting to dry areas that can trap wetness, such as under your arms or breasts.

Intertrigo treatment

For mild cases, your doctor will tell you to keep the affected area of your skin dry and exposed to air. Your doctor may also want to prescribe a topical steroid cream. For certain cases, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal cream. There are also antifungal powders that may help dry the skin. Talk to your doctor about which treatment is right for you.

Living with intertrigo

Intertrigo may come and go. If you know that you are predisposed to getting this type of rash, take precautions. Before physical activity, treat the area with deodorant or with petroleum jelly. Do what you can to keep skin folds dry.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What is the best way to keep from getting intertrigo again?
• Do I need to make any changes to my lifestyle?
• Do I need to use a cream or ointment?
• What side effects could I have from my medicine?
• Do I need to take an antibiotic?
• Is there anything I can do on my own to help myself get better?

Resources

U.S. National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Intertrigo

Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

Risk Factors, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Written by Annie Stuart

• Symptoms of Intertrigo
• Causes of Intertrigo
• Risk Factors for Intertrigo
• Prevention and Treatment of Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a fancy name for a rash that shows up between the folds of skin. It is a very common skin rash that can crop up throughout life.

The most common areas affected include larger skin-fold areas such as:

• Armpits
• Beneath the breasts
• Genital area
• Abdomen

What does intertrigo look like? It may cause:

• Red or reddish-brown rash
• Raw, itchy, or oozing skin
• Foul odor
• Cracked or crusty skin

Intertrigo may appear in any skin folds that rub together and trap moisture. In infants, intertrigo often shows up as diaper rash.

Intertrigo can occur:

• Between toes and fingers
• In armpits
• In the inner thighs
• In the groin and at the scrotum
• On the underside of your breasts or belly
• In the crease of your neck
• Between the buttocks

If you have any symptoms of intertrigo, be sure to see your doctor. Your doctor can check for the presence of infection as well.

Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin condition that can be caused and worsened by many factors. These include:

• Moisture
• Heat
• Lack of air circulation
• Friction between skin folds

Sweat, urine, and feces can contribute to the skin problem.

Intertrigo is often accompanied by an infection caused by:

• Yeast
• Other types of fungus
• Bacteria

You are more likely to get these infections in skin folds because these are areas that are warm and tend to stay moist. This creates a welcome environment for the growth of germs.

You are more likely to develop intertrigo if you:

• Are obese
• Have diabetes
• Have a splint, brace, or artificial limb
• Are exposed to high heat and humidity

Other possible risk factors include:

• Incontinence
• Excessive sweating
• Poor hygiene
• Malnutrition
• A suppressed immune system due to chemotherapy or HIV

Infants — with their chubbiness, shorter necks, and flexed posture — are also at greater risk for intertrigo.

Certain skin diseases such as psoriasis may also prompt the development of intertrigo. So it’s a good idea to have a dermatologist check it out.

If you or your child has intertrigo, your doctor may suggest simply keeping the affected area dry and exposed to the air. You may control oozing with moist compresses of an astringent called Burow’s solution. Then air-dry with a hair dryer set on “cool.”

A barrier cream may be recommended to help protect skin from irritants.

To treat intertrigo, your doctor may recommend short-term use of a topical steroid to reduce inflammation in the area. If the area is also infected, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal or antibiotic cream or ointment. Sometimes you need an oral medication.

Some simple steps may help lower your risk in the future, such as:

• Shower and dry off thoroughly each day. Keep your skin as dry and cool as you can.
• Avoid wearing tight shoes or clothing.
• Wear a bra with good support.
• If the areas between the toes are affected, consider wearing open-toed shoes.
• For infants with diaper rash, change diapers more frequently.
• If you are overweight, do what you can to lose weight.

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Atopic dermatitis or skin inflammation

What is atopic dermatitis or skin inflammation?

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease with exacerbations and improvements, the main symptom of which is itching.

In atopic dermatitis, the formation of the natural protective layer of the skin is disrupted. Characterized by dry and flaky skin. During an exacerbation, inflamed red and scaly (scaly) or weeping patches appear.

Where is the atopic dermatitis rash located?

The location of the rash on the body depends on age. In infants, young children, adolescents, and adults, the location of the rash varies.

Baby (infant):

• The face and cheeks are red and rough.
• Inflammation covers the chest, back and folds of the limbs.
• The rash is symmetrical.
• Under eyes, area around mouth and nose mostly without rash.

Small child:

• The rash is located on the folds of the elbow and knee joints.
• Often rash on the neck, wrists, back of the hand, ankle.
• The skin pattern is strongly pronounced, the skin is often thickened.
• Skin shows scratch marks.

Adolescents and adults:

• The rash is localized on the elbows and knees, wrists and palms.
• The skin pattern is strongly pronounced, the skin is thickened.
• Characteristic skin fold under the eyes.

What are the complaints caused by atopic dermatitis

• Symptoms range from short and mild to severe itching and rash causing sleep disturbance.
• Due to sleep disturbances, children are tired during the day, their attention is distracted, their academic performance and ability to work are reduced.
• One of the main risk factors for exacerbation of atopic dermatitis is stress. At the same time, a visible rash and excruciating itching, in turn, lead to psychological stress, which makes it difficult to control the disease.

What is the cause of atopic dermatitis and its exacerbation

The cause of the disease is still unclear, although heredity and human environment play an important role. Exacerbation of dermatitis can cause physical and chemical irritants that get on the skin. For example, rough clothes (wool and synthetics), smelly detergents, hot water, wiping with a hard towel, cold and hot weather.

Exacerbation of atopic dermatitis can cause a general illness, which can be caused by severe respiratory tract infections or severe purulent inflammation of the skin.

Exacerbation of the rash of atopic dermatitis can cause a state of mental irritation or an allergen contained in food or air. About a third of children with atopic dermatitis are allergic to food or air allergens.

What to use for atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis cannot yet be cured, but the disease can be controlled with daily skin care. To improve the elasticity of the skin, to avoid cracks, reduce itching and flaking of the skin, increase the protective function of the skin, you can smear softening base creams on dry areas of the skin several times a day. When choosing a base cream, it is very important that it is suitable for the patient and does not cause burning and redness. Zinc-containing creams reduce inflammation and soothe, but at the same time dry the skin. Zinc-containing creams can be alternated with base creams.

Creams with a high fat base generally need to be applied less frequently than water-based creams.

Considerations for atopic dermatitis

• For especially sensitive skin, use a base cream.
• Short periods of time may be spent in the shower, bath or pool
• Oils may be added to the water while taking a bath.
• Skin irritation can be avoided by using fragrance-free and color-free detergents.
• Wipe the skin with a soft towel, blotting lightly and then immediately apply the cream.
• Avoid sweating as much as possible, as this can irritate the skin.
• Choose a cool room for sleeping, as coolness reduces itching.

Compiled by: sister of the children’s clinic Tiija Kõivist

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What is atopic dermatitis?

“Dermatitis” means inflammation of the skin. And the term “atopic” is understood as a hereditary predisposition to allergies.

Most often, this disease first manifests itself in childhood. In most patients, by the age of five, atopic dermatitis goes into stable remission, but often the disease can continue in adults. The exact causes of the disease have not been established, but modern medicine believes that atopic dermatitis is a multifactorial disease, which is based on a genetic predisposition to atopic diseases.

IMPORTANT! Information from the article cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-treatment! Only a doctor can prescribe the necessary examinations, establish a diagnosis and draw up a treatment plan for a consultation!

A tendency to atopic dermatitis can be realized when there are provoking factors in your life:

• psycho-emotional stress;
• disturbance in the functioning of internal organs;
• unfavorable environment.

It has been noticed that atopic dermatitis worsens more often in the cold season, so if skin problems arise with the onset of cold weather, there is reason to think about visiting a dermatologist.

The main symptom of atopic dermatitis is itching of varying intensity. Sometimes so strong that it can disturb the sleep of the patient. Inflammation and dryness of the skin, a variety of rashes that often accompany the disease, cause very unpleasant sensations.

There are several stages of the disease:

• Infantile (up to two years of age).

During this period, rashes, as a rule, are edematous redness, peeling on the skin of the face, on the extensor surfaces of the arms and legs. In more severe cases, blisters, weeping, and crusts may appear. In this stage, as a rule, there is a clear connection with food irritants.

• Children (from two to 12 years).

At the age of two years, atopic dermatitis in children manifests itself in the form of rashes on the skin of the elbows, popliteal fossae, and the back of the neck. The tendency to get wet decreases, nodular inflammatory elements are more often present, increased dryness of the skin, its peeling and irritation persists.

• Adult (over 12 years old).

In most patients, by this age, the disease goes into stable remission (no manifestations of the disease). With the continuation of the disease in adulthood, intense pruritus comes to the fore. Severe dryness of the skin, peeling persists. Rashes on the skin can be varied (bubbles, nodules, foci of redness). Most patients have a clear connection between exacerbations and psycho-emotional factors.

The above symptoms refer to periods of exacerbation of atopic dermatitis. During the “lull” the disease can manifest itself only as increased dryness of the skin.

Advice for people with atopic dermatitis

• People with atopic dermatitis have very sensitive skin. Such people do not want frequent water procedures, and they need to wash themselves with the use of special emollients and moisturizers, do not use a washcloth. After washing, it is better to remove water from the surface of the skin with blotting movements, and not with the usual wiping.
• Emollient and moisturizing cream for atopic dermatitis must be used daily. In clothes, preference should be given to cotton and skin contact with wool, synthetic and coarse fabrics should be avoided.
• For those suffering from atopic dermatitis, it is better to keep carpets, as well as items and furniture that contribute to the accumulation of dust, in the house. Books and clothes are best kept in lockable cabinets and vacuumed regularly. Pillows and blankets are better to use not down, but from synthetic materials.
• This disease imposes some dietary restrictions. Especially in infancy. It is very important that parents keep a food diary for their baby. It will help to clearly trace the connection between the use of a particular product and the exacerbation of atopic dermatitis.
• Many children have an increased sensitivity to milk and egg whites, which disappears with age. In the future, the significance of food allergies decreases. In adults, true food allergies are extremely rare.

However, adults with atopic dermatitis should also avoid foods that are rich in histamine or increase its release in the body:

• fermented cheeses cheeses
• cheeses
• marinades
• brewer’s yeast
• alcohol, etc.

In addition, if the patient notices a deterioration in the skin condition after consuming a particular product, then this product should also be excluded from the diet. During an exacerbation of the disease, a more stringent diet is required, excluding all irritating foods: spicy, smoked, spicy, marinades, fatty, sweet, muffin, fried, citrus fruits, honey, nuts, chocolate, alcohol. The sun is a powerful factor influencing the condition of the skin.

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Is it possible sunbathing with atopic dermatitis?

Yes, but the skin should still be protected from excess UV radiation. For example, using creams with a high degree of protection (SPF30+ and above). Apply the cream to the skin every two hours. In addition, it is better not to spend the “hottest” hours in the open sun. Even people without skin problems are advised to sunbathe either before 11 am or after 4 pm.

How to treat atopic dermatitis?

• The first step in the treatment of atopic dermatitis is the identification and elimination of triggers. At the same time, antihistamines are prescribed to eliminate the itching that bothers the patient. When choosing a drug, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor so that he can help not only choose a medicine, but also calculate the dose corresponding to the age of the patient and the nature of the course of the disease.
• In addition, local anti-inflammatory drugs (creams, ointments), including hormonal ones, are used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. The choice of drug should be approached very carefully, especially for infants.