| Intertrigo |
Intertrigo, commonly called “skin fold dermatitis”, refers to a type of inflammatory rash (dermatitis) of the superficial skin that occurs within a person's body folds.[1] These areas are more susceptible to irritation and subsequent infection due to factors that promote skin breakdown such as moisture, friction, and exposure to bodily secretions and excreta such as sweat, urine, or feces.[1] Areas of the body which are more likely to be affected by intertrigo include the inframammary fold, intergluteal cleft, armpits, and spaces between the fingers or toes. Skin affected by intertrigo is more prone to infection than intact skin.[1]
The term "intertrigo" commonly refers to a secondary infection with bacteria (such as Corynebacterium minutissimum), fungi (such as Candida albicans), or viruses. A frequent manifestation is candidal intertrigo.
Intertrigo occurs more often in warm and humid conditions. Generally, intertrigo is more common in people with a weakened immune system including children, the elderly, and immunocompromised people.[1] The condition is also more common in people who experience urinary incontinence and decreased ability to move.[1]
Bacterial intertrigo can be caused by Streptococci and Corynebacterium minutissimum.[1] [2]
Intertrigo can be diagnosed clinically by a medical professional after taking a thorough history and performing a detailed physical examination. Many other skin conditions can mimic intertrigo's appearance including erythrasma, inverse psoriasis, scabies, pyoderma, atopic dermatitis, candidiasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and fungal infections of the superficial skin like Tinea versicolor or Tinea corporis.[1]
Greases, oils, and barrier ointments [3] may help by protecting skin from moisture and from friction.[4]
Intertrigo is also a known symptom of vitamin B6 deficiency.[5]