Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a skin disorder caused by the macerating effects of heat, moisture and friction. Most often seen in the groin, axillae or in inframammary folds (1).

Aetiological factors include:

• past history of seborrhoeic dermatitis
• infection with Candida albicans
• diabetes mellitus
• obesity
• poor hygiene
• humid climate

Characteristically intertrigo presents as mild erythema which can be seen initially as red plaques on each side of the affected skin fold (in a mirror image fashion). The patient complains of itching, stinging and burning (1). As the erythema progresses features of a more intense inflammation may develop e.g. - erosions, oozing, fissures, exudation, maceration, and crusting (1).

The moist and damaged skin predisposes to secondary skin infections (1).

Examination reveals red, weeping skin at the site of moist skin folds.

Treatment includes:

• avoid the use of absorptive powders, such as talc and cornstarch, which may irritate the skin (2)
• patients should use light, absorbent cloths and keep away from nylon or other synthetic fabrics
• topical treatment with antifungals (which may be combined with a steroid cream) (1,2)
  • daktacort cream BD, is a reasonable first-line option as it contains miconazole (which treats candida, as well as having some Gram‐positive bacteriostatic action) and 1% hydrocortisone cream which reduces inflammation)
  • if more significant inflammation consider trimovate cream
• if the skin is not settling then further treatment, such as topical or oral antibiotics, or oral antifungal therapy, may be required, the specific treatment should be guided by results of skin swabs (2)

Reference:

1. Voegeli D. Intertrigo: causes, prevention and management. Br J Nurs. 2020 Jun 25;29(12):S16-S22.
2. Primary Care Dermatology Society. Intertrigo [Internet]. Primary Care Dermatology Society; 2023 [cited 2026 Aug 15]. Available from: https://www.pcds.org.uk/clinical-guidance/intertrigo