Intertrigo is a common skin condition causing redness, itching, pain, weeping and increased odor of the skin folds. Skin folds occur anywhere there is skin on skin contact, such as in the groin, on the buttocks, and underneath the breasts, abdomen or arms. The increased friction/rubbing in these areas and lack of air circulation initiates this skin condition and can promote overgrowth of bacteria or fungi. Intertrigo can affect all persons, however, it is most common in bedridden older adults and infants. 

Risk factors for intertrigo include obesity, incontinence, poor hygiene, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and medical conditions which suppress your immune system such as diabetes, HIV, etc. Diagnosis of intertrigo is typically made clinically, however a culture may be taken to rule out bacterial or fungal infection, and a skin biopsy may be done if the diagnosis is unclear to the provider.

Treatments that can reduce the risk of intertrigo recurring include daily cleansing of skin folds with a mild cleanser and drying the area well after, allowing air to reach the area when possible, daily application of drying powders, using absorbent material to soak up moisture between skin folds, weight loss, and getting underlying conditions such as excessive sweating and diabetes well under control. There are several prescription creams with antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which your provider may use as treatment.