From the Guidelines
Diaper rash and fungal diaper rash can be distinguished by their distinct appearances, with fungal diaper rash typically presenting as bright red, raised patches with sharply defined borders and satellite lesions, as opposed to regular diaper rash which appears as red, irritated skin with well-defined edges and possible mild scaling. The key differences in appearance between the two conditions are crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach.
- Regular diaper rash typically appears as:
- Red, irritated skin in the diaper area
- Well-defined edges
- Possible mild scaling
- The skin may look raw, tender, or slightly swollen
- Usually doesn't extend into skin folds
- Fungal diaper rash (candidiasis), on the other hand, presents as:
- Bright red, raised patches with sharply defined borders
- Often with satellite lesions (small red spots) separate from the main rash
- Characteristically affects skin folds
- May have a scalloped edge
- The affected area might appear shiny
- The rash can be persistent despite regular diaper care According to the practice guidelines for the treatment of candidiasis by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1, treatment options for fungal diaper rash include topical antifungal agents, which is consistent with the need for antifungal treatment in cases of fungal diaper rash.
- Treatment for regular diaper rash includes:
- Frequent diaper changes
- Gentle cleansing
- Air drying
- Zinc oxide or petroleum-based barrier creams
- Treatment for fungal diaper rash requires:
- Antifungal treatment such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or nystatin cream
- Applied thinly 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days
- Continuing for 2-3 days after the rash clears These differences in treatment approaches underscore the importance of accurately distinguishing between regular diaper rash and fungal diaper rash based on their appearances.