What is a Yeast Infection Rash?

A yeast infection rash can occur when Candidiasis yeast infect the skin. There are more than 20 species of Candidiasis yeast, but Candidiasis albicans may be the most common cause of yeast skin infections. The skin normally repels yeast, but skin infections can occur in moist, warm areas such as the underarms, the groin, or in skin folds. Unlike systemic or oral yeast infections, skin yeast infections do not usually require extensive medical treatment. Symptoms are often easily recognizable and medications to treat a rash from a yeast infection are available both over the counter and by prescription.

One common type of skin yeast infection rash is candidal diaper rash. Candidiasis yeast can easily take hold in the diaper region, because the warmth and moisture there can easily impair the skin's ability to withstand yeast organisms. Candidal diaper rash typically causes a flat, red rash. The edges of this rash are often sharp and scalloped. Smaller rashes may appear in the region; these rashes are commonly known as satellite lesions or pustules.

Another type of yeast infection rash, intertrigo, may occur in skin folds, under the breasts, or in other warm, moist areas such as the groin or underarms. Just as with candidal diaper rash, these areas are allowed to remain moist, which can damage the integrity of the skin. Wounds in the area can also allow Candidiasis yeast to take hold and cause an infection. Intertrigo typically causes the skin in body folds to appear red and softened.

Excessive sweating, lack of movement, or antibiotic use can cause a rash associated with a yeast infection. This is known as a candidal body rash. When this condition occurs in newborn infants, it is generally known as congential cutaneous candidiasis. Congential cutaneous candidiasis usually occurs when a mother spreads a yeast infection to her infant as it passes through the birth canal. The yeast infection rash may appear within hours of birth.

Erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica is yeast infection of the finger webs. Diabetics are at risk for this type of yeast infection rash, as are those whose hands come into frequent, extended contact with water. Erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica causes redness and softening of the skin in the finger webs.

Most yeast skin infections don't require extensive medical treatment. Antifungal creams and ointments, available over the counter or by prescription, can usually clear them up. Oral medications like fluconazole can be helpful in the treatment of yeast infection rashes. In addition to using topical or oral medication, sufferers are typically advised to keep the area clean and dry.