What is intertrigo. How does intertrigo develop in skin folds. What are the common symptoms of intertrigo. Who is at risk for developing intertrigo. How can intertrigo be prevented and treated. What complications can arise from untreated intertrigo. When should you seek medical help for intertrigo.

What is Intertrigo and How Does It Develop?

Intertrigo is a common skin condition characterized by redness and inflammation in areas where skin folds rub against each other. Often referred to as a “sweat rash,” intertrigo develops when moisture becomes trapped in skin folds, creating an ideal environment for irritation and potential infection.

Why does intertrigo occur in skin folds? The combination of several factors contributes to its development:

• Moisture accumulation, primarily from sweat
• Friction between skin surfaces
• Accumulation of dead skin cells
• Overgrowth of normal skin bacteria
• Potential colonization by Candida yeast

These conditions create a perfect storm for skin irritation and breakdown, leading to the characteristic redness and discomfort associated with intertrigo.

Common Sites and Risk Factors for Intertrigo

Where is intertrigo most likely to appear? The condition typically affects areas where skin folds create warm, moist environments:

• Under the breasts
• In the armpits
• Beneath abdominal folds
• Between the buttocks
• In the groin area
• Within neck creases
• Between the toes

Who is most susceptible to developing intertrigo? While anyone can experience this condition, certain factors increase the risk:

• Obesity or overweight individuals
• People with diabetes
• Those with hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Individuals with large breasts
• Older adults
• Infants, particularly in diaper areas

Does intertrigo occur only in hot weather? Contrary to popular belief, intertrigo can develop year-round. In summer, hot temperatures increase sweating and risk. In winter, layered clothing can trap moisture and create similar conditions.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Intertrigo

How can you identify intertrigo? The condition presents with several characteristic symptoms:

• Redness in affected skin folds
• Itching, burning, or stinging sensations
• Small red bumps on the skin
• Cracked or macerated skin
• Possible unpleasant odor

In some cases, intertrigo may progress to more severe symptoms, indicating a potential infection:

• Presence of pus or bleeding
• Foul smell from the affected area
• Increased pain or discomfort

Different Types of Intertrigo

Are there variations in how intertrigo presents? Healthcare providers may classify intertrigo in several ways:

• Acute intertrigo: A recent onset requiring prompt treatment
• Candidal intertrigo: Complicated by Candida yeast overgrowth
• Chronic intertrigo: Persistent condition lasting over 3 months
• Recurrent intertrigo: Repeated episodes of the condition
• Uncomplicated intertrigo: Early-stage without infection

Preventing Intertrigo: Strategies for Skin Health

How can you reduce the risk of developing intertrigo? Implementing proper skin care practices is crucial:

• Keep skin folds clean and dry
• Use moisture-wicking fabrics
• Apply antiperspirants to prone areas
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing
• Change out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly

For those with recurring issues, what additional steps can be taken? Consider these advanced prevention strategies:

• Use barrier creams or powders in skin folds
• Employ absorbent materials between skin folds
• Consult a dermatologist for personalized advice

Effective Treatment Options for Intertrigo

What are the primary approaches to treating intertrigo? Treatment typically involves a combination of strategies:

1. Keeping the affected area clean and dry
2. Applying over-the-counter antifungal or antibacterial creams
3. Using barrier creams to protect the skin
4. Applying cool compresses to reduce inflammation
5. Taking oral medications if prescribed by a healthcare provider

In cases of severe or persistent intertrigo, what additional treatments might be necessary?

• Prescription-strength topical corticosteroids
• Oral antifungal medications
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Specialized dressings or bandages

Potential Complications of Untreated Intertrigo

Why is it crucial to address intertrigo promptly? Untreated cases can lead to serious complications:

• Skin breakdown and ulceration
• Secondary bacterial or fungal infections
• Cellulitis, a potentially serious skin infection
• Sepsis in severe cases

How quickly can complications develop? While minor cases may resolve with home care, persistent or worsening symptoms should prompt medical attention within a week to prevent more serious issues.

When to Seek Medical Help for Intertrigo

What signs indicate the need for professional medical care? Consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist after a week of home treatment
• The rash worsens or spreads
• You experience signs of infection (pus, increased pain, fever)
• You have recurring episodes of intertrigo
• You have underlying conditions like diabetes

For infants with suspected intertrigo, when should parents seek medical advice? It’s best to consult a pediatrician for any persistent rash in infants, as their delicate skin requires specialized care and treatment.

Living with Intertrigo: Long-Term Management Strategies

How can individuals prone to intertrigo manage the condition long-term? Implementing a comprehensive approach is key:

• Develop a consistent skincare routine
• Monitor and maintain a healthy weight
• Choose appropriate clothing and fabrics
• Stay vigilant for early signs of recurrence
• Manage underlying conditions like diabetes effectively

What role does lifestyle play in managing intertrigo? Making certain lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Regular exercise to promote overall health and weight management
• Stress reduction techniques to minimize stress-related sweating
• Dietary changes to support skin health and manage conditions like diabetes
• Proper hydration to support overall skin health

The Importance of Patient Education

Why is understanding intertrigo crucial for effective management? Educating patients about the condition empowers them to:

• Recognize early symptoms
• Implement preventive measures effectively
• Seek timely medical attention when necessary
• Adhere to treatment plans more consistently

Healthcare providers play a vital role in this education process, ensuring patients have the knowledge and tools to manage their skin health effectively.

Intertrigo in Special Populations

How does intertrigo affect different groups uniquely? Let’s explore some specific considerations:

Intertrigo in Infants

Why are babies particularly susceptible to intertrigo? Several factors contribute:

• Delicate, sensitive skin
• Frequent diaper use creating moist environments
• Limited mobility leading to prolonged skin contact
• Difficulty in communicating discomfort

What special care do infants with intertrigo require? Management often involves:

• Frequent diaper changes
• Gentle cleansing with water or mild soap
• Application of barrier creams or ointments
• Allowing skin to air dry when possible
• Consultation with a pediatrician for persistent cases

Intertrigo in Older Adults

Why are elderly individuals at higher risk for intertrigo? Several age-related factors contribute:

• Decreased skin elasticity and thinning skin
• Reduced mobility leading to prolonged skin contact
• Weakened immune system
• Higher likelihood of underlying health conditions

What special considerations apply to managing intertrigo in older adults?

• Gentle skincare practices to avoid further irritation
• Regular skin checks, especially in hard-to-reach areas
• Assistance with hygiene and skin care when needed
• Consideration of mobility aids to reduce prolonged skin contact
• Close monitoring for signs of complications

Intertrigo in Individuals with Diabetes

Why does diabetes increase the risk of intertrigo? Several factors come into play:

• Elevated blood sugar levels creating an environment conducive to fungal growth
• Impaired immune function
• Reduced sensation in extremities, potentially masking early symptoms
• Increased risk of obesity, a contributing factor to intertrigo

What additional steps should individuals with diabetes take to manage intertrigo?

• Maintain strict blood sugar control
• Perform regular, thorough skin checks
• Use diabetes-friendly moisturizers to maintain skin health
• Seek prompt medical attention for any skin changes
• Work closely with healthcare providers to manage both diabetes and skin health

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Intertrigo Management

What new developments are on the horizon for intertrigo treatment and prevention? Several areas of research show promise:

Advanced Topical Treatments

How might future topical treatments improve intertrigo management? Researchers are exploring:

• Novel antifungal compounds with enhanced efficacy
• Combination products addressing multiple aspects of intertrigo
• Slow-release formulations for prolonged treatment effects
• Natural and plant-based alternatives with fewer side effects

Innovative Fabrics and Materials

Can clothing play a role in preventing intertrigo? Emerging textile technologies offer potential solutions:

• Advanced moisture-wicking fabrics
• Antimicrobial textiles to reduce bacterial growth
• Smart fabrics that adapt to body temperature and moisture levels
• Specialized undergarments designed for high-risk individuals

Microbiome Research

How might understanding the skin microbiome impact intertrigo treatment? Ongoing studies are investigating:

• The role of beneficial bacteria in preventing skin infections
• Probiotic treatments to restore skin microbiome balance
• Personalized approaches based on individual microbiome profiles

Genetic Factors

Could genetic research lead to more targeted intertrigo treatments? Scientists are exploring:

• Genetic markers that increase susceptibility to intertrigo
• Gene therapies to enhance skin barrier function
• Personalized treatment plans based on genetic profiles

As research progresses, these developments may offer new hope for individuals struggling with recurrent or difficult-to-treat intertrigo, potentially revolutionizing management strategies and improving quality of life for those affected by this common but challenging skin condition.

Intertrigo is a red rash of the skin folds

An intertrigo rash is sometimes called a ‘sweat rash’. It can appear when folds of moist skin continually rub together. Intertrigo (pronounced ‘inter-tri-go’) is fairly common and very uncomfortable. But with simple treatment and changes to how you care for your skin you can prevent and treat this condition.

Intertrigo

• Where does intertrigo commonly appear?
• Who gets intertrigo?
• What are the symptoms of intertrigo?
• How to prevent intertrigo.
• Intertrigo rash treatment.

What causes an intertrigo rash?

Everybody has areas where their skin folds over on itself. When this skin is warm and sweaty, the conditions are perfect for intertrigo. The aspects of skin folds that make them susceptible to intertrigo are:

• Moisture (especially from sweat).
• Friction of folded skin. This causes dead skin cells to rub off and accumulate.
• Irritation caused by normal skin germs that thrive in a moist environment.
• Growth of a yeast germ called Candida, which exacerbates the issue.

A sweat rash can occur all year round. In the summer it’s due to hot weather. In winter it’s caused by layering clothes to keep warm.

Where does intertrigo commonly appear?

Intertrigo is most likely to appear as an armpit rash, under the belly fat stomach fold, or beneath or between the breasts.

You may also see this sweat rash:

• In neck creases.
• Between the crack in the buttocks fold.
• On inner thighs.
• In the groin area.
• In the belly button.

The deeper the skin folds, the more likely the chance that intertrigo will develop.

Babies can also get intertrigo. If it appears on their buttocks and groin area, it’s often considered a form of ‘diaper rash’.

Intertrigo can flair up between the skin folds of a baby’s arms, legs and neck too.

Who gets intertrigo?

Anyone with sweaty skin can get intertrigo, especially if you have excessively sweaty skin and/or hyperhidrosis. In my practice, I mostly see adults with this condition and the risk increases with age. But as mentioned above, babies can also get it.

People with large breasts or a fold under their belly fat are especially prone to sweat rash. It may show up as a red line under the abdomen apron.

Because skin germs thrive in a sweet and sugary environment, diabetics are particularly susceptible to intertrigo. They often also develop a Candida yeast infection which makes their intertrigo rash particularly severe.

What are the symptoms of intertigo?

Symptoms of intertrigo are:

• Redness as a rash or sore in the affected area.
• Small, red bumps on the skin.
• Itching, stinging, burning and/or pain in the area.
• Dry, cracked skin.

If intertrigo isn’t treated early an infection may develop. Infection happens when bacteria and fungus get into broken skin.

The symptoms of an infection include:

• Pus and/or bleeding.
• A foul smell.

Infections need immediate medical treatment to prevent further complications. Excessive body odor can also occur with stress sweat. This is different from an infection. That said, the excessive sweat from stress will place your skin at risk for intertrigo. When in doubt, it’s best to see your medical provider for an accurate diagnosis. 

What complications are caused by intertrigo?

Untreated intertrigo can lead to complications such as:

• Skin breakdown and ulceration. Ulcerated areas of skin are at risk for serious forms of infection.
• Cellulitis. This is a bacterial infection that can be life-threatening if it isn’t treated quickly. That’s because it can spread to other parts of the body.
• Sepsis. Intertrigo can lead to an infection that could cause sepsis, which is life-threatening.

When to seek medical help

You should see your doctor immediately if:

• You have symptoms of an infection (see above).
• An armpit rash, under belly rash or a sweat rash elsewhere on your body persists after a week of intertrigo care, or it gets worse. Not all skin fold rashes are intertrigo.
• You experience severe stinging from any cream use.
• You continuously suffer from an intertrigo rash. Ask your doctor to test you for diabetes. Diabetics have an ideal skin environment for intertrigo, making them more susceptible to the condition.

Treatments for infants should always be supervised by a doctor since their skin is so delicate.

Are there different types of intertrigo rash?

Your healthcare provider may use some of these terms when discussing intertrigo:

• Acute intertrigo. This means intertrigo has appeared recently and has been identified as needing treatment.
• Candidal intertrigo. When intertrigo has become infected by the fungus and yeast, Candida, it’s called candidal intertrigo and there may be little pustules along the active edge of redness.
• Chronic intertrigo. When intertrigo has lasted a long time (usually more than 3 months) it’s known as chronic intertrigo.
• Recurrent intertrigo. This is when intertrigo keeps coming back.
• Uncomplicated intertrigo. When a sweat rash is not infected it’s called uncomplicated intertrigo.

How to prevent intertrigo

To lower your chance of being affected by this sweat rash, follow these tips:

• Wash skin folds every day with antibacterial soap or body wash, such as Dial. This decreases skin germs and acts as an antiperspirant. Only apply the soap to the sweaty parts of your body otherwise it may be too drying.

• Wash skin folds twice a week with a pyrithione zinc soap. This ingredient helps reduce a broad range of skin germs that can contribute to intertrigo. Get the full 2% strength in my Foaming Zinc Cleanser which is an effective body wash for intertrigo. It’s also a shampoo to treat dandruff and a skin cleanser to fight body acne.

• After bathing, towel-dry your skin and then blow dry skin folds until they are totally dry.
• Apply Zeasorb AF powder to dry skin folds. Zeasorb AF contains an anti-yeast medicine. Never apply corn starch-based powders to skin folds because the starch feeds yeast. Zeasorb AF is the best powder for skin folds!
• Wear breezy, loose cotton or linen clothing that breathes and allows sweat to air dry quickly.
• Separate skin folds with absorbent cotton cloth in sweaty conditions.
• Avoid synthetic and thick fabrics that don’t allow your sweat to air dry.
• Stay cool and say ‘yes’ to things that reduce stress and anxiety to decrease sweating.
• Shower as soon as possible after excessive sweating such as a sweaty workout. This will also help to prevent sweat acne, another skin problem from sweating. 

Intertrigo rash treatment

If a red, painful and sometimes smelly intertrigo rash continues to flare up, despite following the skin care recommendations above, then medicine is needed to control it. Luckily, there are effective treatments available over the counter.

I ask my patients to stop applying Zeasorb AF powder after blow drying skin folds. Instead, I advise them to apply clotrimazole cream (e.g., Lotrimin Cream) to the affected area twice a day. Clotrimazole needs to be used for at least two weeks because it takes two weeks to fully treat a yeast infection.

If clotrimazole cream doesn’t reduce redness within a few days, I ask patients to add a thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream after applying clotrimazole. However, I tell them to stop using hydrocortisone as soon as possible because it can thin the skin.

Never use hydrocortisone for more than two weeks without seeing your doctor. Avoid home remedies such as witch hazel because it can irritate this sensitive and red skin in the skin folds.

Can dietary changes help?

To prevent and treat an intertrigo rash, I advise both diabetic and non-diabetic patients to avoid foods with high glycemic (sugar) index: sweets, sugary drinks, and refined flours.

For information about a low sugar diet and easy recipes, please download my FREE eBook, Healthy Eating Guide: How to Eat Your Way to Beauty and Health – A Guide to an Alkaline Mediterranean Diet.

Click here to learn more about medicated pyrithione zinc containing cleanser Foaming Zinc.

Author: Dr. Cynthia Bailey M.D. is a Board Certified dermatologist practicing dermatology since 1987. She has done well over 200,000 skin exams during her career and authors the longest running physician written skin health blog in the world. 

References:

T Nobles, Intertrigo – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf, 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov › books › NBK531489

Gabriel S, Hahnel E, Blume-Peytavi U, Kottner J. Prevalence and associated factors of intertrigo in aged nursing home residents: a multi-center cross-sectional prevalence study. BMC Geriatr. 2019 Apr 15;19(1):105. doi: 10.1186/s12877-019-1100-8. PMID: 30987588; PMCID: PMC6466768.

Kalra MG, Higgins KE, Kinney BS. Intertrigo and secondary skin infections. Am Fam Physician. 2014 Apr 1;89(7):569-73. PMID: 24695603.

Mistiaen P, van Halm-Walters M. Prevention and treatment of intertrigo in large skin folds of adults: a systematic review. BMC Nurs. 2010 Jul 13;9:12. doi: 10.1186/1472-6955-9-12. PMID: 20626853; PMCID: PMC2918610.

Treatment, Signs, Pictures, and Prevention

Intertrigo is a skin condition that can occur anywhere on the body where skin touches skin. Medical treatment and at home prevention can help clear the rash and reduce irritation.

Skin conditions commonly affect the folds of the skin, especially when the skin is wet or sweaty. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and even infection. Intertrigo, a common skin condition that can occur in the folds of the skin, is characterized by red, inflamed skin that may be itchy or painful.

The good news? With some know-how, you can often treat it at home and prevent it from returning. Here’s how to spot an intertrigo rash and what you can do about it at home and with a doctor’s help.

Intertrigo is a reddish rash that appears in skin folds, where your skin surfaces rub against each other. The rash can be itchy or painful, but it’s not contagious.

Bacteria, fungus, and viruses can easily grow in this warm and moist environment and worsen the rash.

The skin areas most often affected include your:

• armpits
• underneath and between breasts
• groin
• buttocks
• between toes

Friction from skin rubbing on skin, moisture, and higher temperature in flexural areas are the main factors in the development of intertrigo.

These areas are often moist, warm, and lack air exposure. This makes them perfect breeding areas for microorganisms. These bacteria or fungi worsen the rash and its symptoms.

Secondary intertrigo infections could include:

Fungi

Candida (a yeast) is the fungus group that’s most commonly associated with intertrigo. About 80% to 90% of all skin yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans (also called thrush).

Most people normally have some Candida albicans present on their skin, so the yeast can easily take advantage of skin breaks to proliferate. A Candida rash is very bright red and raw looking. It may have plaques, which are raised, scaly lesions. Papules and pustules (pimple-like bumps) may be present as well.

Bacteria

Bacteria associated with intertrigo include:

• staphylococci
• streptococci
• Pseudomonas
• Corynebacterium

Viruses

The most common virus families associated with intertrigo are:

• Poxviridae
• Papillomaviridae (human papilloma virus or HPV)
• Picornaviridae
• Retroviridae (HIV)
• Herpesviridae
• Togaviridae
• Parvoviridae

In some cases, intertrigo occurs as a side effect of chemotherapy treatment.

Intertrigo starts as redness or small bumps or spots in skin folds. The rash can feel:

• itchy
• uncomfortable
• burning
• prickly
• painful

The intertrigo often appears on both sides of the skin fold, almost like a mirror image. Infections are more likely to be unilateral and asymmetrical, while inflammatory disorders tend to be symmetrical, appearing, for example, under both arms or both breasts.

The reddish area can quickly become inflamed and raw. The skin may crack, bleed, ooze, and crust over. The surrounding area may become scaly.

If you have a secondary infection from bacteria, fungus, or a virus, the intertrigo becomes more inflamed and can develop a bad smell. Intertrigo with a secondary infection is often asymmetrical (not even or present on both sides).

You may have intertrigo in more than one skin area. Also, smaller skin fold areas, such as behind your ears, around your chin, or on your eyelids, can be affected.

Intertrigo symptoms often get worse when the area comes in contact with your bodily secretions, such as sweat, urine, or feces.

Intertrigo is common and can occur at any age, but according to a 2014 article, it’s more common in the very young and in older people. In babies, intertrigo most often appears as diaper rash.

People with a weakened immune system or who are incontinent or immobile are more likely to have intertrigo. It’s also more common in hot and humid weather.

Treatment for intertrigo is usually a skin cream and a good home hygiene regimen to keep the area clean and dry. The type of topical drug depends on whether bacteria or yeast are involved. In more severe cases, you may need to take oral medication.

When intertrigo is inflammatory only, with no infection, treatment is straightforward: Keep the area clean and dry and follow some of the home remedy suggestions below.

There are also several solutions that may help to control intertrigo. A doctor may suggest:

• antiperspirants
• triple paste with zinc oxide, aluminum acetate, and petrolatum
• petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
• talcum powder

If you have an infection with the intertrigo, the doctor will prescribe specific topical creams.

Your treatment for intertrigo will depend on the cause and the type of infection you have. We’ll go over bacterial and yeast infections below.

In extreme cases, some women have undergone breast reduction surgery to reduce chronic intertrigo.

Keep it clean and dry

The number one rule is to keep the area clean and dry.

If you exercise, shower afterward and pat yourself dry. Don’t rub your skin, as this can cause increased irritation and damage to the skin.

Use anti-chafing or barrier gels

If the intertrigo is inflammatory only, without an infection, use over-the-counter (OTC) creams to create a barrier between the skin folds. Creams or ointments with zinc oxide or petrolatum can be useful. There are also anti-chafing balms that come in stick form.

Block the sweat

Use a mild antiperspirant to stop sweating, including under your breasts.

OTC antifungal creams

If you have a fungal infection, try using use an OTC antifungal cream on the affected area for 2 to 4 weeks.

Create a physical barrier

Depending on the affected area, use a thin cotton or gauze barrier to separate the skin folds.

Wear loose clothing and breathable fabrics

Wear loose cotton clothing next to your skin and avoid synthetic materials that can be irritating.

Topical antifungals used for intertrigo are nystatin (for Candida) and azole drugs, including miconazole (Mitrazol), ketoconazole (Nizoral topical), or clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF cream).

You usually use the cream twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

If your rash is very itchy, the doctor may also prescribe an antifungal combined with a low dose corticosteroid.

Depending on the severity of the infection, a doctor may prescribe a systemic antifungal drug that you’d take by mouth.

Topical antibiotics are used for bacterial infections. These include bacitracin or mupirocin (Bactroban).

If the infection is more severe, the doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic, such as flucloxacillin or erythromycin (Erythrocin).

The doctor may also prescribe a low potency corticosteroid and advise you to use an antibiotic soap.

Intertrigo in babies requires special care because the affected skin area is so delicate. Keep the area clean, wash it gently with mild soap, and pat it dry.

Use an absorbent diaper and wrap it loosely. Consider changing diapers on a schedule to decrease the amount of time your baby is in a wet diaper. OTC creams, such as those with zinc oxide or petrolatum, may be useful.

If the diaper rash looks infected or doesn’t go away in a few days, see a doctor.

If you or your child have a skin rash that doesn’t go away or rapidly gets worse, it’s important to see a doctor. Skin rashes can have many causes and the treatment is often very specific. You should also see a doctor if the rash isn’t getting better with treatment.

Red rashes can have many different causes. The doctor will want to rule out other possibilities, such as psoriasis or allergic reactions.

If they suspect it’s intertrigo and infection, they’ll likely test for a fungal, bacterial, or viral cause. A doctor may take a skin scraping or swab of the rash to send to a lab for a culture. They may also look at it under a microscope or special lamp.

Few scientific studies of intertrigo have measured what preventive care works and what doesn’t. But there are measures you can take that may work for you:

• Keep the skin area clean, dry, and aerated.
• Maintain a skin care routine of cleaning, moisturizing, and applying a skin barrier to protect the area.
• Use fragrance-free soaps and other skin products to minimize irritation.
• Use a powder, such as Zeasorb AF, on the area once or twice a day.
• Minimize exposure to sweat, urine, or feces. If you’re incontinent, use special products to absorb moisture.
• Use a dehumidifier if you live in humid conditions.
• Use an air conditioner to avoid being in high heat.
• If you have diabetes, keep it under control.
• Shower after exercise and dry off completely before dressing.
• Don’t wear tight clothing or shoes that can constrict the affected area. If your toes are affected, wear open-toe shoes.
• Wear loose clothing and breathable fabrics such as cotton.

Intertrigo doesn’t usually cause any complications, but it can lead to more serious infections if it isn’t treated properly.

Bacterial intertrigo can lead to cellulitis, which is a skin infection that can spread to the deeper layers of the skin and the lymph nodes. Cellulitis can be serious and may require hospitalization.

Fungal intertrigo can lead to a more serious infection such as candidemia, a condition in which the yeast infection spreads through the bloodstream. Candidemia can be life threatening.

Intertrigo can also worsen other skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.

Anyone can get intertrigo, but some conditions can increase your risk. You’re more at risk if:

• you have a weakened immune system
• you have excess skin
• you have diabetes
• you have poor hygiene habits
• you’re immobile
• you’re incontinent
• you wear a splint, brace, or an artificial limb that rubs your skin
• you live or work in high heat and humidity
• you sweat excessively (hyperhidrosis)
• your clothing or shoes are too tight
• you have an inflammatory skin condition

Infants are also at a higher risk because their skin is more sensitive. They also tend to have skin rolling (like the folds of the neck) and are more likely to have damp skin from drooling and from wearing diapers.

Below are some frequently asked questions about intertrigo.

Does poor hygiene cause intertrigo?

Poor hygiene can cause or worsen intertrigo, but you can get intertrigo even if you practice good hygiene habits. It’s important to clean the affected area, but you also need to be careful not to irritate the skin.

What does intertrigo look like?

Intertrigo usually looks like a rash. The affected skin is usually red, inflamed, and moist. It can also be scaly, crusted, or have blisters. The rash often has well defined edges where it meets the surrounding skin.

Can tight clothing cause intertrigo?

Tight clothing can rub the skin and cause or worsen intertrigo. It’s best to wear loose fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton.

Can I use over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for intertrigo?

OTC treatments, such as barrier creams and powders, can help treat intertrigo. But if the rash doesn’t go away after a week or two, or if it gets worse, you should see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if you have any symptoms of a skin infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever.

Intertrigo is a common and treatable condition. People with intertrigo who are otherwise healthy have a good outlook. If a secondary infection is involved, it’s important to treat the cause until the symptoms are gone.

In some cases, intertrigo can become chronic. Maintaining a good skin cleaning and moisturizing routine can help prevent intertrigo from coming back. Talk with a doctor if you have questions about your skin or if the rash doesn’t go away with self-care.

Abdominal rash, causes and treatment

Abdominal rash is a common phenomenon that occurs at least once in every second person. The causes of rashes are varied: from an allergic reaction to hormonal changes during pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. It is noteworthy that in children, rashes are provoked by specific causes that are uncharacteristic of adults. You should not ignore this symptom: if the rash does not go away for 1-2 days, consult a therapist or dermatologist.

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Causes of rash on the abdomen

• In pregnant women. Most often, rashes are associated with hormonal changes, when hormones negatively affect the skin. A rash in the form of red plaques with a white rim indicates dermatosis, reddish vesicles with liquid inside indicate an allergy.
• Men. Causes of rashes range from harmless prickly heat to malfunctions of the internal organs and infectious diseases. If grayish-red bumps appear in the lower abdomen, it is worth suspecting syphilis, gonorrhea, or other sexually transmitted infections. Large red spots with scabs often accompany chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema.
• In children. A rash can appear with prickly heat or infectious diseases – scarlet fever, measles, rubella, chickenpox and others. The same reasons can provoke rashes in adults, but children are much more prone to them.

Article checked

Konovalova G. N.

Neurologist • 44 years of experience

Publication date: March 24, 2021

Review date: January 20, 2023

Article content

Accompanying symptoms of rash on the abdomen

Quote from CMRT specialist

Ulyanova Daria Gennadievna
Neurologist • Chiropractor • Experience 24 years

Quote from a CMRT specialist

A rash on the abdomen may indicate an allergic reaction, hormonal disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, and less often neurological pathologies. In order to understand the true cause and prescribe the correct treatment, it is necessary to visit a specialized specialist, pass current laboratory tests, and undergo diagnostics. Do not self-medicate and postpone a visit to the doctor.

Ulyanova Daria Gennadievna
Neurologist • Chiropractor • Experience 24 years

Diagnostic methods

To make a diagnosis, the CMRT conducts an examination, assesses the nature of the rashes and recommends the following examinations and tests:

Where to see a doctor

If your stomach is covered, see a general practitioner or dermatologist first. If a child has a symptom, write it down to the pediatrician. Depending on the results of the initial diagnosis, the doctor will involve a specialist in further treatment, for example, an allergist or an endocrinologist.

How to treat a rash on the stomach

The strategy for treating rashes depends on the cause that provoked it. To get rid of the symptom, the CMRT doctor prescribes local ointments, and uses the following methods to treat the underlying disease:

Consequences

Prevention

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Checked the article

Moskaleva V.V.

Editor • Journalist • Experience 10 years

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symptoms and causes, what to do, prognosis

Rash on the abdomen in an adult: what could it be?

Eruptions on the abdomen can be very annoying, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as itching or burning. There can be many reasons for this ailment, we will consider the most common of them.

Types of rashes in adults

Urticaria

Reddening of the skin is accompanied by the appearance of small blisters, slightly elevated above the level of the skin, similar to those that appear after contact with nettles.

Spotted rash

Spots of indeterminate form appear on the body, usually red. They can merge with each other into small islands or be at a distance from each other. Do not rise above the surface of the skin or rise almost imperceptibly. Such a rash may disappear when the skin is stretched or pressed against it.

Papular rash

Papules are small hard blisters filled with solid contents. They feel like solid masses, look like small, firm pustules that are not filled with fluid. Their diameter can reach from 1-3 mm to 1-3 cm.

Vesicular (vesicular) rash

Blisters on the skin can be filled with either clear or purulent fluid (then called pustules), tend to merge with each other [1].

Probable causes of rashes on the abdomen in adults

Skin changes on the abdomen or other parts of the body can occur for many reasons. Among the most common are allergies and some infectious diseases.

Skin diseases

This is a large group of diseases, the main manifestations of which are changes in the skin. They can be acute and chronic, infectious and non-infectious. A dermatologist deals with the treatment of skin diseases.

Skin diseases that can cause a small red rash on the abdomen include: neurodermatitis, Gibert’s pink lichen, eczema, polymorphic photodermatosis, psoriasis, acne and others. Each of these pathologies has its own characteristic symptoms and features of skin manifestations [1].

Diseases of a viral nature

Chickenpox

Chickenpox causes a rash to appear on the abdomen, back, arms, legs and face. At the beginning of the disease, these are small redness in the form of spots, which eventually transform into larger vesicles that dry out after opening. In adults, chickenpox may leave small scars [2].

Herpes zoster

Another disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus is herpes zoster. Before the appearance of skin changes, patients feel pain, burning and itching along the course of the nerve that was attacked by the virus. The rash is grouped into characteristic stripes along the body along the intercostal spaces. Skin lesions look the same as with chickenpox, that is, they go through stages in the form of spots, vesicles and drying of the vesicles. [3].

Measles

The main symptoms of measles are cough, fever, redness and small spots on the face. As the disease progresses, papules may appear all over the body, but they do not require serious treatment, as they disappear on their own after a few days. As a treatment, dry ointments, for example, with zinc oxide, can be used. Remember that measles should always be diagnosed by a doctor, as it can have serious complications [4].

Allergy

We are surrounded by a huge number of allergens, so one of the most common causes of a rash on the stomach is an allergic reaction. It can be caused by chemicals used for washing, the material from which clothes are made, food, pets, cosmetics, and medicines. A rash on the abdomen caused by an allergy usually presents with redness, small spots, hives, itching, or dry, flaky skin.

Allergy treatments include antihistamines and ointments or creams that moisturize and soothe itchy skin. To avoid such a rash in the future, it is recommended to consult an allergist and carry out allergy tests. In people prone to frequent allergic rashes, it is recommended to use hypoallergenic cosmetics, emollients specifically designed for allergic skin, and limit the consumption of highly allergenic products during daily care [5].

Rash in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Skin manifestations often accompany diseases of the intestines and stomach. Violation of the absorption of vitamins, minerals and nutrients affects the condition of the skin and mucous membranes [6]. Congenital deficiencies usually appear at an early age.

In adults, the rash is associated with atopic reactions of the digestive system – such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, colon polyposis, Helicobacter pylori infection (gastritis, duodenitis). There is an assumption that Helicobacter pylori can provoke the development of psoriasis [7].

A bright rash is one of the important symptoms of typhoid fever [8].

Sexual infections

A small red rash on the abdomen is manifested in the following sexually transmitted diseases:

• second stage of syphilis;
• pubic pediculosis [9].

Rash on the abdomen with scabies

The scabies mite causes an itchy rash on the abdomen, the infection spreads by self-infection during scratching of the scabies in the thickness of the skin. The sooner scabies is diagnosed, the sooner you can get rid of it. It is very important not to scratch the lesions on the skin, and wash clothes and bedding at high temperatures [10].

Infectious skin rash

Rash should not be taken as an isolated symptom. Infectious diseases also have the following signs:

• fever, chills, aches, general malaise;
• enlarged regional lymph nodes;
• the presence of an entrance gate of infection;
• history of contact with infected people;
• specific changes in blood tests and biochemical analysis, characteristic of the infectious process (increased ESR, shift of the leukoformula, the appearance of C-reactive protein, etc.).

Infections with skin manifestations include herpes, typhus, leptospirosis, rubella, hemorrhagic fevers of various origins, infectious mononucleosis, meningococcal infection, measles, typhoid fever, chickenpox, Rosenberg’s erythema, paratyphoid fever, Lyme disease, pseudotuberculosis, salmonellosis , scarlet fever, enterovirus infection, Chamer’s infectious erythema, erythema nodosum, etc.

Only a doctor can understand this variety. Therefore, if there are signs of an infectious disease, you should not self-medicate [11].

Skin changes in Fabry disease

Fabry disease is a congenital disease of a genetic nature, which is accompanied by a variety of clinical manifestations. One of the characteristic symptoms of Fabry disease is angiokeratomas on the abdomen – small dark red (up to purple) rashes. They can also appear on the face, in the anus, on the fingers and toes. The elements of the rash slightly rise above the surface of the skin, inside there is a dense content.

In addition to the rash, patients complain of burning pain in the arms and legs, visual and hearing impairment, and abdominal pain. But, since the rash immediately attracts attention, this is often the first reason to see a doctor. With timely early diagnosis, the progression of Fabry disease can be slowed down with the help of modern enzyme replacement therapy [12].

Diagnosis of rashes on the abdomen

If a rash appears on the abdomen, you should consult a general practitioner or therapist who can make a diagnosis or refer you to a specialist (allergist, dermatologist, gastroenterologist, infectious disease specialist, etc.