What is "intertrigo"

Intertrigo \In`ter*tri"go\, n. [L., fr. inter between + terere, tritum, to rub.] (Med.) A rubbing or chafing of the skin; especially, an abrasion or excoriation of the skin between folds, as in fat or neglected children.

n. (context medicine dated English) chafe or dermatitis occurring between two folds of skin

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

An intertrigo is an inflammation ( rash) of the body folds (adjacent areas of skin).

The term "intertrigo" commonly refers to a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection that has developed at the site of broken skin due to such inflammation. A frequent manifestation is candidal intertrigo.

An intertrigo usually develops from the chafing of warm, moist skin in the areas of the inner thighs and genitalia, the armpits, under the breasts, the underside of the belly, behind the ears, and the web spaces between the toes and fingers. An intertrigo usually appears red and raw-looking, and may also itch, ooze, and be sore. Intertrigos occur more often among overweight individuals, those with diabetes, those restricted to bed rest or diaper use, and those who use medical devices, like artificial limbs, that trap moisture against the skin. Also, there are several skin diseases that can cause an intertrigo to develop, such as dermatitis or inverse psoriasis.