ANY RELIEF WHEN THEY'RE RUBBED RAW?
July 1999
MITCHELL B. RUBIN, MD, of North Vancouver, BC, writes: "I frequently see children and adults with noninfected, severely chafed groin and perianal regions, caused by exercise, diarrhea, diapers or sweating. What's the best treatment for this?" He'd also like to know: "Are there any homemade dermatologic potions that might be helpful?"
In its early stages, the condition can be controlled by making sure that patients avoid friction, pressure and restriction of movement, and don't wear tight clothing. Advise them not to drive or sit for long periods. If obesity, diabetes or incontinence are involved, make sure these conditions receive attention. Wet dressings, applied properly, are useful initially in acute cases and may be followed by mild lotion. Imidazole antifungals (clotrimazole, miconazole, etc.) can be applied with hydrocortisone (1%) twice a day.
practice guidelines & special reports