What are inverse psoriasis and intertrigo? 

Inverse psoriasis and intertrigo are both skin diseases but have different causes and treatments, even though they have some of the same symptoms. Inverse psoriasis is a disease that attacks skin folds such as under the stomach, groin and armpits. This disease is caused by the body's immune system attacking itself, instead of protecting the body.¹ Intertrigo is also a skin disease that occurs in the folds, usually caused by friction between the skin. This disease usually indicates that there is inflammation or infection of the skin in these areas.²

What are the causes and symptoms of inverse psoriasis and intertrigo?

The cause of inverse psoriasis is an immune system problem. The body's immune response “overreacts”, causing new skin cells to grow more quickly.¹ Usually, the symptoms of psoriasis are:

• Shiny rash, usually changing colour
• Cracks on the surface of the skin
• Itching 

Meanwhile, intertrigo can attack anyone, this disease is caused by genetic and environmental factors such as someone with obesity, diabetes, genetically sensitive skin, high skin humidity, and the presence of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Additionally, people who live in areas with high humidity and people who constantly consume alcohol and smoke can be susceptible to this condition.²

Symptoms of intertrigo include:

• Itching and peeling skin in the fold area
• Inflammation and discoloration of the skin
• If caused by bacteria, there can be  an unpleasant odour

When can I see a doctor?

Sufferers of inverse psoriasis or intertrigo can visit a doctor for consultation and treatment when the mentioned symptoms appear. As previously explained, since the symptoms of both diseases are almost the same, a detailed dermatologist assessment may be necessary for an accurate diagnosis.. Usually, if a dermatologist still cannot determine the diagnosis just visually, they will perform a biopsy for further investigation so that the results can be conclusive.

How to treat and manage inverse psoriasis and intertrigo?

The first line treatment for inverse psoriasis usually includes corticosteroid drugs,⁴ being prescribed by a   a doctor for further treatment advice. However sufferers of this disease can help reduce its recurrence by adjusting their lifestyle such as exercising regularly and improving their eating patterns.³

The treatment of intertrigo also, depends on prior medical assessment, since it can involve the management of fungal and bacterial infections. When it is caused by fungi, an oral or topical antifungal medication is indicated. In cases of intertrigo caused by bacteria, antibacterial drugs are prescribed.³

Apart from consulting a doctor, there are several things patients  can do to avoid or at least reduce the flare-ups of these two diseases, including:³

• Minimize humidity  in fold areas, such as underarms, by using deodorant
• Bathing after practising physical activity to reduce sweat on the body
• Use body moisturizer to maintain body moisture
• Wear clothes made from soft materials
• Maintain personal and environmental cleanliness
• Inverse psoriasis sufferers can look for psoriasis communities to get support from others and gain insight into this disease.

Summary 

Inverse psoriasis is a disease caused by the body's immune system over-responding. This disease is sometimes considered an intertrigo disease because the symptoms are similar and sufferers cannot differentiate between the rashes that appear because they are almost the same. Intertrigo is a disease caused by friction in a damp area, allowing fungi and bacteria to grow. Because of the similarities between these two diseases, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or dermatologist to more accurately achieve a diagnosis and be prescribed the correct treatment.