What are the common symptoms of intertrigo. How is intertrigo diagnosed and treated. What preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing intertrigo.

Understanding Intertrigo: A Common Skin Fold Condition

Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects areas where skin folds rub together or trap moisture. This common rash can occur at any age and is characterized by redness, irritation, and potential secondary infections. To effectively manage intertrigo, it’s crucial to understand its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Intertrigo

Intertrigo presents with distinct symptoms that can vary in severity. The most common signs include:

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

These symptoms typically appear in areas prone to friction and moisture accumulation, such as:

• Armpits
• Under the breasts
• Groin area
• Abdominal folds
• Between toes and fingers
• Neck creases
• Buttocks region

Identifying the Root Causes of Intertrigo

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

• Skin-on-skin friction in folded areas
• Excessive moisture trapped between skin folds
• Warm, humid conditions promoting microbial growth
• Poor air circulation in affected areas
• Presence of sweat, urine, or feces exacerbating the condition

Is intertrigo contagious? No, intertrigo itself is not contagious. However, secondary infections that may develop in the affected area could potentially be transmitted to others.

Risk Factors Contributing to Intertrigo Development

Certain individuals are more susceptible to developing intertrigo. Key risk factors include:

• Obesity or overweight conditions
• Diabetes
• Use of splints, braces, or artificial limbs
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Hot and humid climates
• Poor personal hygiene
• Weakened immune system

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take proactive measures to prevent intertrigo or manage its recurrence.

Diagnosing Intertrigo: When to Seek Medical Attention

While mild cases of intertrigo may be self-diagnosed, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment. The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Visual examination of the affected area
2. Review of medical history and symptoms
3. Possible skin scraping or swab for microscopic analysis
4. Differential diagnosis to rule out other skin conditions

Are special tests required to diagnose intertrigo? In most cases, a visual examination is sufficient for diagnosis. However, if a secondary infection is suspected, your doctor may take a sample to identify the specific microorganism involved.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Intertrigo

Treatment for intertrigo aims to reduce inflammation, prevent secondary infections, and alleviate discomfort. The approach may include:

• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Application of topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Use of antifungal or antibacterial creams if infection is present
• Drying powders to absorb excess moisture
• Barrier creams to protect the skin from friction and moisture

What is the best treatment for intertrigo? The optimal treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of secondary infections. Your healthcare provider will recommend a tailored approach based on your specific case.

Over-the-Counter Solutions

For mild cases, over-the-counter treatments may provide relief:

• Zinc oxide creams
• Antifungal powders or creams
• Mild hydrocortisone creams
• Moisture-absorbing powders

Prescription Medications

In more severe cases or when over-the-counter remedies are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe:

• Stronger topical corticosteroids
• Prescription-strength antifungal or antibacterial medications
• Oral antibiotics for widespread bacterial infections

Preventive Measures to Reduce Intertrigo Risk

Prevention is key in managing intertrigo. Implementing the following strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing this skin condition:

• Maintain good personal hygiene
• Keep skin folds clean and dry
• Use moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics
• Apply antiperspirants to reduce sweating
• Use barrier creams in prone areas before physical activity
• Lose weight if overweight or obese
• Manage underlying conditions like diabetes

How can you prevent intertrigo naturally? Incorporating natural remedies such as applying cornstarch or using tea tree oil diluted with a carrier oil may help prevent intertrigo. However, consult with a healthcare provider before using any natural remedies, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

Living with Intertrigo: Long-term Management Strategies

For individuals prone to recurrent intertrigo, developing a long-term management plan is crucial. This may involve:

• Regular skin inspections to catch early signs of irritation
• Adapting clothing choices to promote airflow and reduce friction
• Maintaining a consistent skincare routine
• Using preventive measures before engaging in activities that may exacerbate the condition
• Working with a healthcare provider to manage underlying health conditions

Can intertrigo be completely cured? While individual episodes of intertrigo can be effectively treated, some people may be prone to recurrence due to their body structure or underlying health conditions. Ongoing management and preventive measures are key to minimizing flare-ups.

Lifestyle Modifications

Incorporating certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact the frequency and severity of intertrigo episodes:

• Regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight
• Dietary adjustments to support overall skin health
• Stress reduction techniques to boost immune function
• Proper hydration to support skin barrier function

When to Seek Follow-up Care

It’s important to know when to consult your healthcare provider for follow-up care. Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms persist despite home treatment
• The affected area becomes increasingly painful or swollen
• You develop a fever or feel unwell
• The rash spreads to new areas
• You experience recurrent episodes of intertrigo

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure effective management of intertrigo.

Intertrigo in Special Populations: Considerations and Approaches

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

Infants and Diaper Rash

In infants, intertrigo often manifests as diaper rash. Managing this condition involves:

• Frequent diaper changes
• Gentle cleaning of the diaper area
• Use of barrier creams or ointments
• Allowing diaper-free time for air exposure

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
• Assistance with personal hygiene if needed
• Use of specialized skin care products designed for sensitive, aging skin

Individuals with Limited Mobility

People with limited mobility face unique challenges in preventing and managing intertrigo. Approaches may include:

• Regular repositioning to reduce prolonged skin-on-skin contact
• Use of moisture-wicking materials in bedding and clothing
• Application of protective barriers to high-risk areas

How does care for intertrigo differ in special populations? Care strategies for special populations focus on addressing unique risk factors and implementing tailored preventive measures, often requiring more frequent monitoring and specialized products.

The Role of Nutrition in Intertrigo Management

While nutrition isn’t a direct cause or cure for intertrigo, maintaining a balanced diet can support overall skin health and potentially reduce the risk of recurrent episodes. Consider the following nutritional strategies:

• Consume foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E to support skin barrier function
• Include zinc-rich foods to promote wound healing
• Stay hydrated to maintain skin elasticity
• Limit processed foods and sugars that may contribute to inflammation

Can dietary changes prevent intertrigo? While no specific diet can prevent intertrigo, a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can support overall skin health and immune function, potentially reducing the risk of skin infections and inflammation.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Intertrigo

As our understanding of skin conditions evolves, new approaches to treating and preventing intertrigo are being explored. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of advanced moisture-wicking fabrics
• Novel topical formulations with enhanced barrier protection
• Probiotic treatments to balance skin microbiome
• Targeted therapies for managing underlying conditions that contribute to intertrigo

What new treatments for intertrigo are on the horizon? While specific new treatments are still in various stages of research and development, the focus is on creating more effective barrier protection, managing skin microbiome balance, and developing targeted therapies for underlying conditions that contribute to intertrigo.

The Promise of Microbiome Research

Recent advancements in microbiome research have opened new avenues for understanding and potentially treating intertrigo. This includes:

• Investigating the role of beneficial bacteria in preventing skin infections
• Developing topical probiotics to restore skin microbiome balance
• Exploring the use of prebiotics to support healthy skin flora

Technological Innovations in Skin Care

Emerging technologies are also playing a role in intertrigo management:

• Smart fabrics that adapt to body temperature and moisture levels
• Wearable devices for monitoring skin health and environmental factors
• Advanced imaging techniques for early detection of skin changes

These innovations hold promise for more effective prevention and early intervention strategies for intertrigo.

Psychological Impact of Intertrigo: Addressing the Emotional Aspect

While primarily a physical condition, intertrigo can have significant psychological effects on those who suffer from it. Understanding and addressing these emotional aspects is crucial for comprehensive care:

• Body image concerns, especially when affecting visible areas
• Anxiety about recurrence or worsening of symptoms
• Social discomfort due to symptoms like odor or visible rashes
• Frustration with chronic management requirements

How can individuals cope with the emotional impact of intertrigo? Coping strategies may include joining support groups, practicing stress-reduction techniques, and working with a mental health professional if needed. Open communication with healthcare providers about both physical and emotional concerns is essential for holistic care.

Building a Support System

Creating a strong support system can be beneficial for those managing chronic intertrigo:

• Educating family and friends about the condition
• Connecting with others who have similar experiences
• Utilizing online resources and forums for information and support

Empowering Self-Care

Encouraging patients to take an active role in their care can improve outcomes and emotional well-being:

• Keeping a symptom journal to identify triggers and effective treatments
• Setting realistic goals for skin care and overall health
• Celebrating small victories in managing the condition

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of intertrigo, individuals can develop a more comprehensive and effective management strategy, improving their quality of life and overall well-being.

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.

Top Picks

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

0001

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.

About clinic

Euromed Clinic is a multidisciplinary family clinic in the center of St. Petersburg.

• Doctor’s house calls
• 24-hour therapist appointment
• Tests, ultrasound, X-ray
• Whole body diagnostics
• Hospital and surgery

9001 5 Vaccination

Learn more about the clinic

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.