What is the definition of intertrigo (intertriginous dermatitis)?

From the Guidelines

Intertrigo is a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by skin rubbing against skin, typically in warm, moist body fold areas, and is often associated with fungal or bacterial infections, particularly in obese and diabetic patients 1. The condition presents as red, raw-looking skin with possible maceration, cracking, oozing, or crusting, and can cause significant discomfort including burning, itching, and pain in affected areas. Key factors contributing to intertrigo include friction, moisture, and heat, which damage the skin barrier and promote growth of microorganisms like yeast, fungi, or bacteria. Some of the most common areas affected by intertrigo include:

• Armpits
• Groin
• Under breasts
• Between toes
• Abdominal folds Treatment and prevention strategies for intertrigo focus on:
• Keeping the area clean and dry
• Using barrier creams like zinc oxide
• Applying antifungal powders or creams if fungal infection is present
• Using mild corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in some cases
• Maintaining good hygiene
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing
• Reducing excess weight when applicable According to the most recent guidelines, topical azoles and polyenes, including clotrimazole, miconazole, and nystatin, are effective in treating intertrigo, especially in cases of candidal skin infections 1.

From the Research

Definition of Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a common inflammatory skin disorder caused by skin-on-skin friction in skin folds, due to moisture becoming trapped because of poor air circulation [ 2, 3 ]. It can occur in any area of the body where two skin surfaces are in close contact with each other, such as the axillary, inframammary, umbilical, and inguinal areas [ 3, 4 ].

Key Characteristics

• Caused by skin-on-skin friction and moisture trapped in skin folds [ 2, 3 ]
• Can occur in any area of the body with closely opposed skin surfaces [ 3, 4 ]
• Strongly associated with obesity 3
• Can lead to secondary fungal and bacterial infections [ 4, 5 ]

Clinical Presentation

• Superficial inflammatory dermatitis on closely opposed skin surfaces 4
• Erythema with peripheral scaling 4
• Satellite lesions in cases of candidal intertrigo 4

Management and Prevention

• Minimize moisture and friction with absorptive powders or barrier creams 5
• Wear light, nonconstricting, and absorbent clothing 5
• Avoid wool and synthetic fibers 5
• Educate patients on skin fold management and structured skin care routines [ 2, 3 ]