A skin inflammation that occurs in warm, moist folds of the body where two skin surfaces chafe against each other. It most commonly appears on the inner thighs, armpits, groin, the crease on the back of the neck, the bottom of breasts in women and below the belly in obese people. It can be caused by a bacterial, yeast or fungal infection. Symptoms include a reddish-brown rash that looks raw and may ooze or itch. In severe cases, the skin may crack or bleed.
Treatment for intertrigo focuses on keeping the affected area dry and exposed to air. Your dermatologist may prescribe steroidal creams, oral antibiotics or antifungal medications (depending on the cause of the infection) to relieve itching and promote healing. Applying warm, moist compresses to the area can also help relieve itching.
