Which organism is commonly associated with satellite lesions in intertrigo?

Which organism is commonly associated with satellite lesions in intertrigo?

• A. Staphylococcus aureus
• B. Candida species
• C. Pseudomonas
• D. Malassezia furfur

Answer: (B)

Satellite lesions around the main intertrigo rash point to Candida albicans overgrowth. Candida loves warm, moist skin folds such as the groin and axilla, and its spread tends to extend beyond the central reddened area, creating small surrounding pustules or papules. This pattern helps distinguish candidal intertrigo from dermatophyte infections, which typically present with a single, well-demarcated plaque and central clearing rather than satellites. Malassezia furfur is associated with tinea versicolor on the trunk, not intertriginous areas with satellite lesions, and Pseudomonas can cause moisture-associated dermatitis without the characteristic satellite pattern seen with candida.

Satellite lesions around the main intertrigo rash point to Candida albicans overgrowth. Candida loves warm, moist skin folds such as the groin and axilla, and its spread tends to extend beyond the central reddened area, creating small surrounding pustules or papules. This pattern helps distinguish candidal intertrigo from dermatophyte infections, which typically present with a single, well-demarcated plaque and central clearing rather than satellites. Malassezia furfur is associated with tinea versicolor on the trunk, not intertriginous areas with satellite lesions, and Pseudomonas can cause moisture-associated dermatitis without the characteristic satellite pattern seen with candida.