Beyond the Folds: A Cross-sectional Clinicomicrobiological Assessment of Adult Intertrigo and Emerging Resistance Patterns in North Karnataka

Background: Intertrigo is a common inflammatory dermatosis affecting skin folds with significant impact on quality of life. Limited data exist on its microbiological profile and clinical presentation, especially in the Indian context. Objective: To evaluate the clinical presentation and microbial etiology of intertrigo in adults and assess antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 80 adult participants with clinically diagnosed intertrigo attending the dermatology department at a tertiary hospital in north Karnataka from July 2022 to December 2023. Demographic data, clinical features, and predisposing factors were recorded. Specimens were collected for direct microscopy, bacterial and fungal cultures, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Results: The study population had female predominance (58%) with a mean age of 45 years. Lower middle socioeconomic class (53.75%) and homemakers (33.75%) were most commonly affected. Itching was the predominant symptom (53.75%). The groin (31.25%) was the most frequent site of involvement. Diabetes mellitus (32.5%) and obesity (42.5%) were the major predisposing factors. Positive cultures were obtained in 71.25% of cases. Staphylococcus aureus (20%) was the most common bacterial isolate, followed by Klebsiella species (8.75%). Among fungi, Candida albicans (12.5%) predominated, followed by nonalbicans C andida species (11.25%). S. aureus showed high sensitivity to amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (75%) but considerable resistance to ciprofloxacin (87.5%). Conclusion: Intertrigo presents with diverse clinical and microbiological profiles influenced by various factors including anatomical location, occupation, and comorbidities. The microbial spectrum and antibiotic sensitivity patterns identified in this study provide valuable insights for clinicians in selecting appropriate treatment strategies for intertrigo management.