Yeast Infections of the Skin: What Is Candida Intertrigo?
Yeast infections aren't just a problem of the genital tract. In fact, they can occur all over the body, including on the skin and mucous membranes. Yeast infections of the skin - also known as Candida intertrigo - are actually the most common type of infection caused by the Candida albicans yeast.
Candida intertrigo tends to occur where two skin surfaces rub together, such as between the thighs, under the breasts, or beneath the underarm. It also commonly occurs in the groin area, between the buttocks, between abdominal folds, and even between the webbing of the fingers and toes. The word "intertrigo" comes from "intertriginous," which means two areas of skin that are directly opposed.
Many factors can increase the risk for developing a skin yeast infection. First of all, it tends to develop in areas of increased moisture, which is why it most often occurs where skin rubs together. Obesity can also increase the risk as there will be more skin folds where Candida can grow. Wearing clothing that is too tight may also contribute to the problem.
Any medical condition that weakens the immune system, such as HIV or diabetes may also lead to yeast overgrowth on the skin. Diabetes in particular not only weakens the immune system but creates an extra food source for yeast through increased blood sugar levels.
Certain medications, like steroids, immunosuppressive medications and chemotherapy for cancer will also weaken the immune system and depress your body's natural response to infections.
The infection appears as an irritated and reddened plaque of the skin surrounded by red dots, or papules. This appearance is very characteristic for this type of infection.
Skin yeast infections are also common in babies under the area that is covered by the diaper - this is called "diaper rash" or diaper dermatitis. Diaper rash is not always caused by Candida, and more frequently is just a sign of local irritation from the diaper. If this irritation continues without treatment, a superimposed Candida infection can result. Similarly as in adults, it will appear is a reddened plaque-like area with surrounding red dots.
It is also common for women who are breastfeeding to develop a yeast infection of the skin around the breast and nipple. This is because babies frequently have Candida in their mouth, and it can be easily spread to the nipple area through cracks in the skin. The skin will be inflamed and painful.
Treatment for Candida intertrigo is similar as that for other types of yeast infections. Topical antifungal creams are usually your best bet for getting rid of the infection. These can be purchased over the counter from any drug store or prescribed by your physician. You will usually need to use the cream twice a day for 3-7 days to get rid of the infection completely, but check with your doctor as it may vary based on where the infection is how how severe it is.
Questions and Answers
Skin yeast infections are mainly caused by one of the strains of the Candida species of fungus, the most common of which is the Candida albicans strain. It is normal for multiple micro-organisms to constantly be living on the surface of the skin; some of these are actually a good...
Candida is a fungus that is the cause of yeast infections. Yeast infections can be found on almost every part of the body. Yeast infections are usually associated with a female's vaginal area, but they can also be found on men in all sorts of places on the body. It is quite simple to cure a yeast infection. Curing a yeast infection is a good skill to have.
Yeast infection on skin is common and this is because a number of yeasts are naturally found on skin. Yeast is a fungus and therefore, expect a fungal infection on skin.
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Yeast infection can attack many parts of the human body, sometimes it can be sexually transmitted.
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Tomas, a 34 year of carpenter, went to see his girl friend of six months at the end of a hard day. Noticing a strange car in the driveway, he peered into her window with some curiosity. He saw her having sexual relations with another man. Enraged, Tomas went home and returned with his shotgun.
Many people are surprised to discover that Candida albicans, the microorganism that causes yeast infections, is part of the normal flora of the body. This means that small amounts of Candida are present in the bodies of who are perfectly healthy and don't have yeast infections. Yeast exists in the body and on the skin as part of a balanced microenvironment including other healthy organisms, such as bacteria. It is only when this natural balance becomes disrupted that a yeast infection occurs.
You are likely most familiar with yeast infections that are localized to one area of the body, such as vaginal candidiasis. You may even know about Candida infections of other parts of the body, such as the mouth and throat, the penis, or the skin. These localized infections are the most common way that Candida presents.
While yeast infections are very common, many people don't understand the underlying causes and risk factors. An important concept to understand is that the bug that causes yeast infections, Candida albicans, actually exists in our bodies even when we are healthy and don't have an overt infection. This is perfectly normal and not a cause for concern. It is only when the inner environment of the body becomes unbalanced that Candida will overgrow and cause infection.
Unfortunately for men, yeast infections aren't just a female problem. Although less common in men, they do occasionally occur, especially in men who are uncircumcised or have diabetes. Fortunately, while the symptoms can be concerning or distressing if you don't understand the cause, the infection is usually straightforward for a doctor to diagnose and treat.
While the yeast Candida albicans is most known for causing vaginal infections, it can also cause infections of the mouth, called oral candidiasis or thrush. This is a fairly common condition in babies, older adults, or people with certain medical conditions, and less common in healthy adults.
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