Intertrigo

Definition

Intertrigo is a condition that occurs mainly on the skinfolds. Intertrigo is an itchy rash. It can get infected with germs or yeast. It usually affects people who are overweight. Intertrigo is more common in those who are obese or diabetic. It is also more likely to occur in hot, humid weather.

Causes

Intertrigo is a yeast infection of skin. It is caused by Candida albicans ther factors that can cause intertrigo include:

• Hot, humid weather
• Tight or abrasive underclothing
• Poor hygiene
• Inflammatory skin diseases, like psoriasis, occurring in the skin folds
• The use of topical steroids

This condition may also be seen in people who are restricted to bed rest or in those who wear medical devices that may trap moisture against the skin, such as artificial limbs, splints, and braces.

Symptoms

Itching is the most common symptom of this illness. In most cases of the itching it will become intense and scratching will not even relieve it. The itching actually occurs under the skin and is not reachable through the surface.

The common symptoms are-

• Red and moist skin
• You may have blisters or scales
• The affected area may smell cheesy or yeasty
• Common sites include your inner thighs, in your armpits, underneath your breasts, in the folds of the skin on your abdomen, between your fingers and toes
• Intertrigo is made worse by sweating
• You may also have seborrhoeic dermatitis or thrush(candidiasis).

Treatment

Treatment can often improve Intertrigo, but unless the provoking factors are eliminated (moisture and friction) repeat episodes will continue. Weight loss and home treatment can clear up the problem of Intertrigo. If, the rash is not treated, bacterial or fungal infections may develop which can create a big problem.

Since it is cause by yeast or bacterial infection. So it can be treated with topical or oral medications. Oozing may be controlled with moist compresses with Burows solution followed by air drying, preferably using a hair dryer with a "cool" setting. Prescription topical steroid creams such as hydrocortisone can be used, but only for a few weeks. Stronger topical steroid creams will be more rapidly effective, but if used for more than a few days may cause serious skin damage.

If a rash develops, then another important treatment is to wash affected areas with water only. Soap can be irritating, so it can be avoided. Pat dry thoroughly. Apply cold, wet compresses to the rash to reduce itching. Repeat frequently. Leave the rash exposed to air. Baby powder can help keep it dry.

Medical personnel can easily identify Intertrigo based on the condition of the skin and the apparent symptoms that are presenting at the time of the exam. Therefore if possible it must be treated with advice