Medical Edge

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Medical Edge

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 11.21.2005

http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/102632

I have had a bad rash on my groin for about six years. A biopsy

showed it's intertrigo. I have seen several doctors, and no one

seems to know of a cure. I've tried more than 30 remedies, and

nothing has helped. Is there no help for this dreadful thing? -

Janesville, Wis.

I am sorry to hear you have had this rash for so long. A groin rash

due to intertrigo usually responds well to simple treatment. It's

surprising yours has persisted even though you've seen multiple

doctors and received so many treatments.

Intertrigo is a common skin infection and inflammation that results

when two surfaces of skin rub against each other in a warm, moist

atmosphere. The chafing traps moisture between the surfaces, causing

the skin to become red, itchy and sore. The excess moisture causes

tiny breaks in the skin and encourages the growth of fungi and

bacteria.

Intertrigo most commonly occurs underneath breasts, in the groin

area, underneath the armpits, in the space between the toes and

underneath abdominal skin folds of people who are overweight.

Intertrigo is unlikely to go away by itself. The key to effective

treatment is to get rid of the infection and to keep the affected

area clean and dry. Here are several treatments commonly prescribed

for intertrigo:

œ Anti-fungal or anti-bacterial creams: These creams help destroy

the germs infecting the skin.

œ Vinegar soaks: Treatment with a very diluted vinegar solution

helps kill the germs that cause fungal infections and dry out the

affected skin.

œ Mild hydrocortisone cream: This cream helps reduce inflammation of

the skin.

œ Drying agents: Use a fan or hair dryer on a cool setting, then use

talcum powder or an absorbent.

The bottom line is that, the problem area must stay dry.

If you already have tried the measures above without any relief, see

a dermatologist. It might be time for another biopsy to confirm your

diagnosis.

- Dr. Mark , dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

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