Definition of Intertrigo

Intertrigo: A superficial skin disorder involving any area of the body where opposing skin surfaces may touch and rub, such as the creases of the neck, the skin folds of the groin, axilla (armpit) and breasts (especially if large and pendulous) and between the toes.

Intertrigo is characterized by skin reddening (erythema), maceration (softening and deterioration), burning, and itching. There may also be erosions, fissures (cracks) and exudation (oozing) and secondary infections.

Factors that predispose to intertrigo include obesity, moisture, warmth, sweat retention and friction. Intertrigo comes from the Latin roots "inter-", between + -"terere", to rub.