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)

References:

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.