Intertrigo is a skin problem caused by friction between one skin and another, such as the friction that occurs in the inner thighs or in the folds of skin, for example, causing the appearance of redness in the skin, pain or itching.
In addition to the redness, there may also be a proliferation of bacteria and fungi, mainly of the Candida species, since the area where the lesion occurs usually accumulates moisture from sweat and dirt, which may result in candidiasic intertrigo. Learn more about the intertrigo caused by Candida .
Intertrigo is generally more common in babies, but it can also occur in children and adults who are overweight or who frequently make repetitive movements, such as cycling or running.
Intertrigo is more common in places such as the groin, armpits or under the breasts, as they suffer more friction and are subject to a greater amount of heat and humidity. Thus, overweight people, who do not perform hygiene correctly or who sweat excessively in these regions are more likely to have intertrigo.
Intertrigo is curable and can be treated at home, maintaining good hygiene of the affected area and applying creams indicated by a dermatologist.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for intertrigo must be guided by a dermatologist and usually starts with the application of creams for diaper rash, such as Hipoglós or Bepantol, which help to protect the skin against friction, facilitating healing.
In addition, it is also recommended to keep the affected area clean and dry at all times and to wear loose-fitting cotton clothing to allow the skin to breathe. In the case of intertrigo in obese people, it is still advisable to lose weight to prevent the problem from arising again. Find out how treatment for intertrigo can be done.
How to identify
The diagnosis of intertrigo is made by the dermatologist through the evaluation of the lions and symptoms described by the person, and the dermatologist may perform a skin biopsy or perform the Wood Lamp examination, in which the diagnosis for this disease is made. according to the lesion's fluorescence pattern. See how the dermatological exam is done.
Intertrigo symptoms
The main symptom of intertrigo is the appearance of redness in the affected region. Other symptoms of intertrigo are:
- Skin wounds; Itching or pain in the affected region; Slight peeling in the affected area; Smelly smell.
The regions of the body where intertrigo occurs most often are groin, armpits, below the breasts, inner thighs, buttocks and in the intimate region. The person with symptoms of intertrigo should consult a dermatologist to diagnose the problem and start the appropriate treatment, preventing the situation from worsening and preventing some daily tasks, such as walking, in the case of intertrigo in the groin, for example.
