Dermatitis of the folds in black Africans in Bamako, Mali.

Dermatitis of the folds (intertrigo) is a frequent reason for attending consultations, particularly in Africa, where the hot and humid climate constitute an aggravating factor. It is a complex pathology with multiple and intricate etiologies. The aim of this study was to describe epidemiological and etiological aspects of dermatitis of the folds in black-skinned subjects in Bamako (Mali). We conducted a transversal descriptive survey of cases of localized dermatitis of the folds of the skin in dermatology clinics in Bamako. In total, 141 cases of intertrigo were identified: 96 female subjects (68%) and 45 male subjects. The average age of patients was 30 ± 18 years (2-80 years). The majority of patients were seen between March and June; 52% of patients had already received treatment before the consultation. The lesions affected skin folds of the groin area and/or area between the buttocks in 95 patients (57.4%), and folds of the armpits and area under the breasts were affected in 46 cases (42.6%). Eczema, erythrasma, and fungal disease were the most frequently observed pathologies. Of interest to this study is the topographical approach that a dermatologist must adopt when diagnosing certain forms of dermatitis. In populations with specific cultural practices, apart from a thorough knowledge of these specific factors, treatment of these conditions requires certain harmful attitudes and behaviors to be abandoned.
(© 2012 The International Society of Dermatology.)