Yeast infection under pannus: what to know

A pannus is an overhanging fold of lower abdominal skin. Yeast can multiply when the fold stays warm and damp, while movement may add rubbing. The area can become red or darker, sore, shiny, cracked or dotted with smaller spots beyond the main rash. These features can also occur with friction injury, eczema or bacterial infection, so a diagnosis may require a skin examination. Symptoms involving the vagina, such as discharge, vaginal itching or vulval pain, are not explained automatically by a pannus rash.

Clean the fold gently and dry every part by patting with a soft towel; cool air from a hairdryer on a low setting may help if comfortable. Wear loose clothing and change damp garments quickly. Keep towels personal and wash clothing regularly. Do not scratch, scrub, use fragranced products or apply steroid cream without advice. A pharmacist or clinician can help select an antifungal medicine when yeast is the likely cause and explain how to use it.

Get prompt medical help if redness spreads quickly, pain becomes strong, the skin opens, pus or a bad smell develops, or fever appears. Seek an appointment when the rash persists, repeatedly returns or interferes with walking and daily care. Mention diabetes, pregnancy, medicines that affect immunity, or previous treatment failures because these details change the assessment.

Ask what is causing the rash, whether the skin needs testing, which product is suitable for a deep fold, and how to protect the area during hot or humid weather.