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diaper dermatitis

Irritation and redness of the skin in the area covered by a diaper.

DY-per der-muh-TY-tis noun

Word parts

What it means

Commonly called diaper rash. Wetness, urine, stool and rubbing break down the skin. It may become infected with the yeast Candida (candidiasiskan-dih-DY-uh-sisAn infection caused by Candida, a yeast (a kind of fungus).Full entry ), which tends to be bright red with small separate spots at the edges. Adults who wear incontinence briefs get a similar irritation.

For the nurse

Teach parents to change diapers often, clean gently with water or a mild cleanser, let the skin air-dry, and use a barrier cream such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly. Report a rash that lasts more than a few days, has blisters or open sores, or comes with fever.

At a glance

Also writtendiaper rash

Related terms

-itis

A word ending that means inflammation.

incontinence

Loss of control over the bladder or bowel, so urine or stool leaks out without the person meaning it to.

candidiasis

An infection caused by Candida, a yeast (a kind of fungus).

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