Skin erosions and superficial ulcers due to intertrigo, a skin irritation and inflammation in skin folds, are displayed. Intertrigo (irritation of body fold areas) may be displayed as irregular red patches and bumps.
Share |

Intertrigo  Information for adults

Picture of Intertrigo: Red or brown, slightly elevated lesions with clear borders are typical of intertrigo. Divider line
Red or brown, slightly elevated lesions with clear borders are typical of intertrigo.
left arrow
right arrow
Self-Care Guidelines
  • Gently cleanse the affected areas daily with mild soap substitutes.
  • Keep the areas dry and exposed to the air. If this is not easy to do, using absorbent cotton or fabric, as well as absorbent powders, may help (as long as fabrics are changed if they become damp). Mild antiperspirants may help, but these can cause further irritation in some individuals.
  • Barrier creams, such as zinc oxide paste, may be helpful for individuals wearing diapers or having incontinence problems.
  • If overweight, weight loss is recommended.
  • For persistent irritation, 0.5–1.0% hydrocortisone cream twice daily may help. Discontinue if you are no better after 2 weeks of use. Adding a topical antifungal to the hydrocortisone, such as clotrimazole cream, may help if yeast infection is suspected. Apply the barrier paste (if used) after application of these creams.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical evaluation when intertrigo does not respond to self-care measures.
Prev: Signs and Symptoms | Treatments Your Provider May Prescribe Next:
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
skinmatters blog, skin health and skin care advice from experts
skin condition finder, over 170 skin conditions and thousands of medical pictures
ask the doctor, skin care questions from visitors, responses from experts