Intertrigo

an inflammatory disease that originates in folds of the skin where there is friction between contiguous surfaces.

The causative factors of intertrigo include increased secretions of sebum and perspiration, enuresis, discharges from fistulas or hemorrhoids, and inadequate drying of skin folds after bathing. Intertrigo can arise between any contiguous surfaces, including the interdigital spaces of the feet (more rarely, of the hands), in the armpits, under the breasts, and in the folds of the abdomen and neck in obese persons. The first symptom is erythema; this is followed by the appearance of nonbleeding cracks in the depths of the folds. In neglected cases the cornified layer of the skin is torn away and erosive patches are formed. The course of intertrigo can be prolonged if infection sets in. The disease is treated by removing the causative factors and using anti-inflammatory agents. Intertrigo is prevented with hygienic skin care and elimination of the causes of increased perspiration and sebum secretion.

intertrigo

[in″ter-tri´go] an erythematous skin eruption occurring on apposed surfaces of the skin, as the creases of the neck, folds of the groin and armpit, and beneath pendulous breasts. It is caused by moisture, warmth, friction, sweat retention, and infectious agents. Fungal infections, such as with Candida, may complicate the condition. Symptoms include burning, itching, moistness, redness, maceration, and sometimes erosions, fissures, and exudations. It is most likely to occur in obese persons, and particularly in those with diabetes mellitus. Intertrigo is most prevalent in hot and humid regions.
In treatment of intertrigo, the apposing body surfaces should be thoroughly cleansed and dried, and then sprinkled with talcum powder containing zinc oxide. Cornstarch is not recommended as it can serve as a glucose-rich culture medium for the growth of bacteria. Sometimes gauze strips between the adjacent skin surfaces will help keep the area dry and exposed to air.

in·ter·tri·go

(in'tĕr-trī'gō), Irritant dermatitis occurring between folds or juxtaposed surfaces of the skin, as between the buttocks, between the scrotum and the thigh, beneath pendulous breasts, etc.; caused by friction, sweat retention, moisture, warmth, and concomitant overgrowth of resident microorganisms; occurring in young children (see diaper dermatitis) and obese adults. [L. a galling of the skin, fr. inter, between, + tero, to rub]

intertrigo

Dermatology Superficial dermatitis due to prolonged moisture and bacteria in skin fold areas, often in overweight people Sites Inner thighs, armpits, under breasts. See Morbid obesiity&ensp. ;.

in·ter·tri·go

(in'tĕr-trī'gō) Irritant dermatitis occurring between folds or juxtaposed surfaces of the skin, such as between the scrotum and the thigh, caused by friction, sweat retention, moisture, warmth, and concomitant overgrowth of resident microorganisms. [L. a galling of the skin, fr. inter, between, + tero, to rub]

INTERTRIGO OCCURRING IN ARMPIT

intertrigo

(in?ter-tri'go) [? + terere, to rub] Skin chafing that occurs in or under folds of skin. The irritation and trapped moisture often result in secondary bacterial or fungal infection. See: illustration; erythema intertrigointertriginous, adjective

intertrigo

A DERMATITIS occurring in areas where skin surfaces come into contact with, and chafe, each other. It is a feature of obesity and occurs under the breasts, between the buttocks and between the thighs. The condition responds to loss of weight and attention to washing and to the care of the skin in the intertriginous areas.

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Words related to intertrigo

noun chafing between two skin surfaces that are in contact (as in the armpit or under the breasts or between the thighs)

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