Skin Fold Discoloration

A skin fold occurs wherever skin touches skin, like the toes.

Skin folds occur wherever skin touches skin. In the average person this can occur in places such as the fingers, toes, groin, buttocks, armpits and breasts, and in some people can also include neck creases and the belly. Sometimes these areas can become discolored. There are a number of reasons for this and a number of treatments for it.

Intertrigo

A reddish discoloration of the skin in a skin fold may be the beginning of a rash. These sorts of rashes are called intertrigo and can become very irritating. If the problem is intertrigo, then you will experience pain and discomfort in the discolored area as it becomes a fully fledged rash. If left untreated, intertrigo may become infected.

Intertrigo Treatment

Intertrigo can be treated using zinc oxide paste and cleaning the affected area daily. If the intertrigo is infected with bacteria or fungus from the skin, a topical antibacterial or anti-fungal cream may be necessary. Loose, comfortable clothing should also be worn and the skin fold kept apart whenever possible.

Acanthosis Nigricans

If the skin discoloration is dark, and is accompanied by thick, velvety skin, this is probably what is called acanthosis nigricans. Acanthosis nigricans is caused by many different factors, but is most commonly caused by obesity or is inherited genetically. It also affects people suffering from diabetes and sometimes is a side effect of taking human growth hormones and oral contraceptives. Acanthosis nigricans can also be lymphoma and gastrointestinal cancers. The condition itself is not harmful, but its causes may be, and it may require treatment.

Cyantosis

If the skin discoloration that you see has a bluish tint, then this is probably due to a lack of oxygen in the blood. Oxygenated blood is red, but blood that has too little oxygen turns blue, which can also turn the skin blue. This condition is called cyantosis and can be caused by lung disease, heart disease and a clot in a vein near the affected area. It can also be caused by a condition called Reynaud's phenomenon, in which the extremities turn blue in the cold.

Considerations

You should consult your doctor if you experience any change in skin coloration. At the very least, your doctor can tell you if there is anything that can be done to return normal pigmentation. If the discoloration is being caused by a more serious problem, then your doctor should be able to tell you.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Center: Intertrigo
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin Discoloration - Bluish
• Skinsight: Acanthosis Nigricans
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Acanthosis Nigricans