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Yeast infection in skin fold. Intertrigo: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Strategies

by alexxlab

What is intertrigo and how does it develop. What are the common symptoms of intertrigo. How is intertrigo diagnosed and treated. Can intertrigo be prevented or managed effectively.

Understanding Intertrigo: A Common Skin Fold Condition

Intertrigo is a inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects areas where skin folds rub together or trap moisture. This common dermatological issue can occur in various parts of the body, particularly in individuals who are overweight, have diabetes, or use medical devices that create skin-on-skin contact.

The term “intertrigo” comes from the Latin words “inter” (between) and “terere” (to rub), which aptly describes the underlying mechanism of this condition. The constant friction and moisture in skin folds create an ideal environment for inflammation and potential secondary infections.

What causes intertrigo?

Intertrigo develops due to a combination of factors:

  • Skin-on-skin friction in body folds
  • Warm, moist environment in skin creases
  • Poor ventilation in affected areas
  • Increased susceptibility in overweight individuals or those with diabetes
  • Use of splints, braces, or artificial limbs that create skin folds

These conditions create an environment conducive to skin breakdown and inflammation. Additionally, the compromised skin barrier makes it easier for bacteria, fungi, or yeast to colonize and potentially worsen the condition.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Intertrigo

Identifying intertrigo early can help prevent complications and guide appropriate treatment. The symptoms of intertrigo can vary in severity but typically include:

  • A red or reddish-brown rash in skin folds
  • Itching or burning sensation in affected areas
  • Raw, sensitive skin
  • Oozing or weeping of the rash
  • Unpleasant odor in severe cases
  • Potential skin cracking or bleeding in advanced stages

Where does intertrigo commonly occur?

Intertrigo can develop in various areas of the body where skin folds are present:

  1. Between toes
  2. In armpits
  3. In the groin area
  4. Underneath breasts or the abdominal fold
  5. In neck creases
  6. Between buttocks

It’s important to note that while these are common locations, intertrigo can occur in any area where skin-on-skin contact and moisture accumulation are present.

Diagnosing Intertrigo: What to Expect

Accurate diagnosis of intertrigo is crucial for effective treatment. While the condition is often recognizable by its characteristic appearance and location, a healthcare professional should be consulted for proper evaluation.

How is intertrigo diagnosed?

The diagnostic process for intertrigo typically involves:

  • Visual examination of the affected skin
  • Review of medical history and symptoms
  • Potential skin scraping or swab for microscopic examination or culture

In most cases, a healthcare provider can diagnose intertrigo based on the appearance and location of the rash. However, if a secondary infection is suspected, additional tests may be necessary to identify the specific microorganism involved.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Intertrigo

Managing intertrigo involves addressing both the underlying causes and any secondary infections that may have developed. Treatment approaches can vary depending on the severity and specific characteristics of each case.

What are the primary treatment options for intertrigo?

Treatment for intertrigo may include:

  1. Keeping the affected area clean and dry
  2. Using barrier creams or powders to reduce friction and moisture
  3. Applying topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
  4. Utilizing antifungal or antibacterial medications for secondary infections
  5. In severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed

It’s crucial to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of any prescribed medications to ensure effective treatment and prevent recurrence.

Preventing Intertrigo: Proactive Measures

While not always preventable, there are several steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of developing intertrigo or managing recurrent cases.

How can intertrigo be prevented?

Preventive measures for intertrigo include:

  • Maintaining good hygiene and keeping skin folds clean and dry
  • Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing
  • Using moisture-wicking fabrics during physical activities
  • Applying barrier creams or powders in susceptible areas
  • Managing underlying conditions such as obesity or diabetes
  • Regularly changing out of wet or sweaty clothing

For individuals prone to intertrigo, incorporating these preventive measures into daily routines can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing the condition.

Living with Intertrigo: Long-term Management

For some individuals, intertrigo may be a recurring issue that requires ongoing management. Understanding how to live with the condition and prevent flare-ups is essential for maintaining skin health and quality of life.

What strategies can help manage recurrent intertrigo?

Long-term management of intertrigo may involve:

  1. Regular skin inspections to catch early signs of recurrence
  2. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine focused on keeping skin folds dry
  3. Using preventive treatments before engaging in activities that may trigger flare-ups
  4. Working with healthcare providers to address underlying health conditions
  5. Adapting lifestyle habits to minimize risk factors

By taking a proactive approach to skin health and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can effectively manage intertrigo and minimize its impact on daily life.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Intertrigo

While mild cases of intertrigo can often be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical care is necessary. Recognizing when to seek help can prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

What signs indicate the need for medical evaluation?

Individuals should consult a healthcare provider if they experience:

  • Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home care
  • Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
  • Fever or other systemic symptoms
  • Severe pain or discomfort in the affected area
  • Recurrent episodes of intertrigo
  • Uncertainty about the diagnosis or appropriate treatment

Early intervention by a healthcare professional can lead to more effective treatment and prevent the condition from progressing to more severe stages.

Intertrigo in Special Populations: Considerations and Approaches

Certain groups of people may be more susceptible to intertrigo or require special considerations in its management. Understanding these unique factors can help tailor prevention and treatment strategies for better outcomes.

How does intertrigo affect different populations?

Special considerations for intertrigo in various populations include:

  1. Infants and young children: Diaper rash is a common form of intertrigo in this age group
  2. Elderly individuals: May have increased risk due to reduced skin elasticity and mobility
  3. People with diabetes: Higher susceptibility due to altered skin flora and impaired healing
  4. Obese individuals: Increased skin folds and moisture retention elevate risk
  5. Athletes: Frequent sweating and tight clothing can contribute to intertrigo development
  6. Individuals with medical devices: Prosthetics or braces can create friction and moisture-prone areas

Tailored approaches for these populations may involve more frequent skin checks, specialized hygiene routines, or collaboration with healthcare providers to address underlying risk factors.

Intertrigo, while common, can significantly impact an individual’s comfort and quality of life. By understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms early, and implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies, those affected by this condition can maintain healthier skin and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Regular communication with healthcare providers and a proactive approach to skin care are key components in successfully managing intertrigo over the long term.

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 of intertrigo 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 intertrigo by looking at your rash. 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 intertrigo, 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.

Intertrigo – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

Continuing Education Activity

Intertrigo is a superficial inflammatory skin condition of the skin’s flexural surfaces, prompted or irritated by warm temperatures, friction, moisture, maceration, and poor ventilation. Intertrigo’s Latin translation, inter (between) and terere (to rub) helps explain the physiology of the condition. Intertrigo commonly becomes secondarily infected, notably with Candida; however, other viral or bacterial etiologies may play a factor in its pathogenesis. This activity reviews the presentation of intertrigo and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in its management.

Objectives:

  • Review the etiology of intertrigo.

  • Describe the presentation of intertrigo.

  • Summarize the treatment of intertrigo.

  • Explain modalities to improve care coordination among interprofessional team members in order to improve outcomes for patients affected by intertrigo.

Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Introduction

Intertrigo is a superficial inflammatory skin condition of the skin’s flexural surfaces, prompted or irritated by warm temperatures, friction, moisture, maceration, and poor ventilation. Intertrigo’s Latin translation, inter (between), and terere (to rub) helps explain the physiology of the condition.[1] Intertrigo commonly becomes secondarily infected, notably with Candida; however, other viral or bacterial etiologies may play a factor in its pathogenesis. Intertrigo can be seen in all ages and is primarily a clinical diagnosis, with the frequently affected areas being the axilla, inframammary creases, abdominal folds, and perineum. Characteristically, the lesions are erythematous patches of various intensity with secondary lesions appearing as the condition progresses or is manipulated.[2]

Etiology

Mechanical factors and secondary infections are the landscape causes of intertrigo. Heat with maceration plays a central role in facilitating this process. The skin folds battle constant frictional forces producing irritation and, at times, erosions to the inflamed skin. Further, moisture builds up in the affected intertriginous areas and develops a feeding ground for secondary infection to flourish. Candida species thrive in heated, high-moisture environments and are a common offender of secondary infection in cases of intertrigo. Moreover, patients with diabetes mellitus have increased pH levels in intertriginous areas contributing to their demographic prevalence.[3] However, it is not uncommon to see gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as other fungi and viruses accounting for some of the cases of secondary infection.[4][5][6]

Epidemiology

People of all ages, from infancy through advanced age, can be affected by intertrigo. The inflammatory condition manifests itself in the infantile age group as a variation of diaper dermatitis. Furthermore, the increased likelihood of a naive or reduced immune system, lack of mobility, and urinary/bowel incontinence contributes to the skin manifestations and their complications.[2] Obesity and diabetes mellitus are two conditions that increase the frequency of developing intertrigo.[5] The condition is most prevalent in geographic areas that have hot and humid climates. Lastly, there is no race or gender predilection observed with the condition.

Pathophysiology

Environmental factors and genetic causes play a leading role in the development of intertrigo. One of these factors is the friction caused by adjacent skin surfaces causing inflammation of the epidermis. Moreover, flexural surfaces have a higher surface temperature compared to other body parts. The moisture and sweat build-up that gets trapped in these areas adds to the maceration of the stratum corneum and epidermis. Additionally, the integumentary system houses bacteria and yeast that flourish in this environment and overgrow in these conditions, making infection a common finding.[4][5][6]

Histopathology

There is no characteristic histologic change seen in intertrigo. Some cases can present with mild spongiosis visualized in the epidermis.

History and Physical

The presentation of intertrigo is generally a chronic subtle onset of pruritus, burning, tingling, and pain in the skin folds and flexural surfaces. If there is an acute change in the quality of the symptoms, consider a secondary infection with Candida albicans, bacteria, or other pathologic organisms. Likely, the patient will be involved in an activity that involves rubbing of their skin surfaces together. Hot and humid environmental conditions are also aggravating factors that contribute to the pathology. Therefore, intertrigo tends to see a higher rate of seasonal incidence. Hyperhidrosis, seen with strenuous exercise, is a prominent contributing factor in the inflammatory condition. Predisposing factors such as obesity and diabetes mellitus, as well as signs of incontinence, urethral discharge, and draining wounds on the exam all contribute to the warm, moist occluded environment responsible for the development of intertrigo.[7]

On physical examination, prevalence is highest among obese patients, yet all body mass index (BMI) subclasses can be affected dependent on other factors. The increased surface area in obese patients accentuates the folds and creases of the body suitable for higher body temperatures. The initial presentation on the skin exam is a mildly erythematous patch on both sides of the skin fold. The degree of inflammation is dependent upon factors such as location and duration, as well as if there is a secondary infection. Over time, the erythematous patch can develop erosions, macerations, fissures, crust, and weeping from the site. If a pustule, crust, or vesicle is visible, a secondary infection should be considered. If Candida species are suspected, satellite papules and pustules are pathognomic. A bluish-green tint can indicate infection with Pseudomonas.[8] Bacterial intertrigo tends to weep and is an intensely erythematous and a potentially tender lesion.[4] In interdigital intertrigo, Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum are the implicated organisms in this body region.[9]

Evaluation

Further evaluation beyond the clinical diagnosis may be required to determine the exact cause and most effective treatment modality. The lesion can be cultured if a bacterial infection is suspected. Fungus, another common invader, can be elicited by a skin scraping of the lesion. The scraping should be taken from the active margin of a lesion, and a 20% potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution is added. The presence of hyphae and/or budding yeast, when viewed with light microscopy, indicates a fungal infection. If the presentation is unusual or therapy has failed, consider performing a biopsy. The use of a Wood lamp can help detect Pseudomonas or erythrasma (Corynebacterium minutissimum) infections. A fasting blood glucose level should be obtained if there is suspicion of diabetes mellitus. This is especially true with difficult to treat and recurrent episodes.

Treatment / Management

To properly treat intertrigo, it is imperative to recognize the underlying factor that is causing the condition. Therefore, the offending causative factor or agent discussed above should be reduced or removed. If there is an infectious component to the rash, then the proper antimicrobial medication should be administered. In simple intertrigo, drying agents such as antiperspirants can be used to minimize the moisture. A bath or shower with proper drying using a soft towel should follow physical activity that causes excessive perspiration. Triple paste, comprised of aluminum acetate solution, zinc oxide, and petrolatum, is an effective antiperspirant that also reduces frictional exposure and improves skin irritation. Staying cool by wearing loose clothing and working in air-conditioned environments will help in the prevention of the rash. Absorbent powders compressed with an aqueous solution of aluminum triacetate 1:40, and wet tea bags are other preventative measures that have been proven to be effective. Absorbent diapers are more effective at decreasing moisture; however, if treatment is required, petrolatum ointment or cream is effective and safe for diaper dermatitis. If the lesion is infected with a bacteria and is mild, then a topical treatment such as mupirocin or bacitracin can be used. If oral medication is required, an effective option against gram-positive bacteria, notably Staphylococcus or Streptococcus, like flucloxacillin or erythromycin, should be prescribed. Topical clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and oxiconazole are effective treatment options for yeast or fungal infected intertrigo. Topical nystatin is effective only for candidal intertrigo. Topical treatments are applied twice a day until the rash resolves. Oral fluconazole 100 to 200 mg daily for seven days can be used for resistant fungal infections. Low-dose steroids may be initiated for anti-inflammatory properties, for example, hydrocortisone cream, yet it is not always needed. A lower strength steroid is preferred if chosen to prevent atrophy in the already thinner epidermis of the flexural surfaces.[10][11]

Differential Diagnosis

The differential is quite extensive for intertrigo. Many other conditions present in the flexural surfaces. However, infection is most important to rule out, and the proper infectious agent should be sought out to provide the correct antimicrobial therapy necessary to eliminate the offending agent. Bacteria, viruses, dermatophytes, and candidal organisms can all cause intertrigo or provoke a secondary infection. [12] Once an infection is ruled out, other similarly presenting conditions commonly found in the flexural surfaces can be further investigated. More common conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, inverse psoriasis, pemphigus, scabies, metabolic derangements, and malignancies frequently present in the skin fold mimicking intertrigo.[13] Nonetheless, intertrigo remains a clinical diagnosis with the findings and clinical picture as previously described.

Prognosis

The prognosis is positive for the majority of patients. The underlying risk factors should be addressed to diminish the intertrigo outbreaks. However, if the risks such as diabetes mellitus and obesity are not properly managed, the condition tends to relapse quite frequently.

Complications

The complications that can arise with intertrigo are predominantly secondary infections that have been discussed at length above. To optimize the prevention of infection, the rash should be directed to a clinician to properly manage the condition. If left untreated, the rash can develop into cellulitis.[14] Furthermore, sepsis can result from hidden ulcers that develop in patients without supervision or obese individuals. Contact dermatitis can occur secondary to topical agents used to treat the rash. Also, prolonged steroid use can cause atrophy and striae to the thinned epidermis of the flexural surfaces.

Consultations

Whether it is the pediatrician or primary care clinician, if there is a doubt of the diagnosis or a rash that has failed treatment, a dermatologist should be consulted to manage the condition further.

Deterrence and Patient Education

Topics that should be discussed with the patient and their family is weight loss and weight control, proper hygiene, glycemic control in patients who have diabetes mellitus, and measures to reduce the frictional component of skin-to-skin contact.

Pearls and Other Issues

Often, there is a combination of an infectious and inflammatory component. To delineate the two, infections are often unilateral and asymmetrical. Inflammatory disorders tend to be symmetrical the majority of the time.

Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Patients with intertrigo are best managed by an interprofessional team approach. Clinicians, nurses, and pharmacists all play an optimal role in achieving successful clearance of the rash. Clinicians and nurses need to emphasize and educate the preventative risk factors and management of the rash to clear the current and prevent further intertrigo occurrences. The clinician can consult the pharmacist when necessary to help with varying formulations of topical therapy as well as oral for certain infectious etiologies.

Review Questions

  • Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

  • Comment on this article.

Figure

Candida Intertrigo. Contributed by DermNetNZ

References

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Wolf R, Oumeish OY, Parish LC. Intertriginous eruption. Clin Dermatol. 2011 Mar-Apr;29(2):173-9. [PubMed: 21396557]

2.

Kalra MG, Higgins KE, Kinney BS. Intertrigo and secondary skin infections. Am Fam Physician. 2014 Apr 01;89(7):569-73. [PubMed: 24695603]

3.

Yosipovitch G, Tur E, Cohen O, Rusecki Y. Skin surface pH in intertriginous areas in NIDDM patients. Possible correlation to candidal intertrigo. Diabetes Care. 1993 Apr;16(4):560-3. [PubMed: 8462378]

4.

Chiriac A, Murgu A, Coroș MF, Naznean A, Podoleanu C, Stolnicu S. Intertrigo Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. J Pediatr. 2017 May;184:230-231.e1. [PubMed: 28237374]

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Metin A, Dilek N, Bilgili SG. Recurrent candidal intertrigo: challenges and solutions. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2018;11:175-185. [PMC free article: PMC5909782] [PubMed: 29713190]

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Adışen E, Önder M. Viral infections of the folds (intertriginous areas). Clin Dermatol. 2015 Jul-Aug;33(4):429-36. [PubMed: 26051057]

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Ndiaye M, Taleb M, Diatta BA, Diop A, Diallo M, Diadie S, Seck NB, Diallo S, Ndiaye MT, Niang SO, Ly F, Kane A, Dieng MT. [Etiology of intertrigo in adults: A prospective study of 103 cases]. J Mycol Med. 2017 Mar;27(1):28-32. [PubMed: 27554869]

8.

Kalkan G, Duygu F, Bas Y. Greenish-blue staining of underclothing due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection of intertriginous dermatitis. J Pak Med Assoc. 2013 Sep;63(9):1192-4. [PubMed: 24601205]

9.

Grosshans E, Schwaab E, Samsoen M, Grange D, Koenig H, Kremer M. [Clinical aspects, epidemiology and economic impact of foot epidermomycosis in an industrial milieu]. Ann Dermatol Venereol. 1986;113(6-7):521-33. [PubMed: 2949683]

10.

Del Rosso JQ. Adult seborrheic dermatitis: a status report on practical topical management. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2011 May;4(5):32-8. [PMC free article: PMC3100109] [PubMed: 21607192]

11.

Hoeger PH, Stark S, Jost G. Efficacy and safety of two different antifungal pastes in infants with diaper dermatitis: a randomized, controlled study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2010 Sep;24(9):1094-8. [PubMed: 20553355]

12.

Honig PJ, Frieden IJ, Kim HJ, Yan AC. Streptococcal intertrigo: an underrecognized condition in children. Pediatrics. 2003 Dec;112(6 Pt 1):1427-9. [PubMed: 14654624]

13.

Wilmer EN, Hatch RL. Resistant “candidal intertrigo”: could inverse psoriasis be the true culprit? J Am Board Fam Med. 2013 Mar-Apr;26(2):211-4. [PubMed: 23471936]

14.

Vanhooteghem O, Szepetiuk G, Paurobally D, Heureux F. Chronic interdigital dermatophytic infection: a common lesion associated with potentially severe consequences. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2011 Jan;91(1):23-5. [PubMed: 21035887]

Disclosure: Timothy Nobles declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Richard Miller declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

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