Intertrigo

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Intertrigo is a medical term that is embarrassing to discuss, but it has to be dealt with nevertheless.

Intertrigo is inflammation of the skin folds caused by skin, or skin friction. We see it in the form of diaper rash in children, and it also occurs in folds of people who are obese.

Since we have a growing problem of obesity in this country, intertrigo is on the rise.

The friction in the folds can lead to bacterial and fungal infections. If you want to avoid the problem, minimize moisture and friction with powders like cornstarch. Also wear light non-constrictive clothing. You should avoid wool and synthetic fibers.