Causes of Itchy Skin Rashes Under the Breast

Bacteria and fungi are everywhere, but sometimes they set up shop on the skin and cause a rash. Warm, moist areas -- like under the breasts -- are more prone to these skin rashes than other areas of the body. Fungal and bacterial infections are common culprits, but skin allergies and even the chronic skin disorder psoriasis can lead to itchy skin rashes under the breasts 3. If you have a persistent rash under the breasts, see your doctor. Keeping skin clean and dry, looking out for possible allergic triggers, and seeing a dermatologist when necessary can prevent rashes from coming back.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections are a common cause of an itchy rash under the breast. A type of yeast known as Candida is the most frequent offender. Candida-related skin rashes are typically red, but white, scaly areas may form as well. Uncontrolled diabetes, antibiotic use, chronic steroid use, obesity and HIV are risk factors for Candida skin infections. Fungal skin infections tend to clear up quickly with topical antifungal creams like ketoconazole. Keeping the area dry by sprinkling antifungal powder, such as nystatin (Nystop powder), under the breasts can also help. Removing damp clothing -- especially bras -- as soon as possible and drying skin thoroughly after showering can help prevent future rashes.

Bacterial Infection

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Itchy rashes under the breast can be caused by bacteria, especially Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria. As with Candida infections, diabetes and immune system disorders are risk factors. However, minor skin trauma can allow bacteria to invade the skin and cause an infection in someone without risk factors. Bacterial skin rashes are usually bright red, may be slightly raised and are often warm to the touch. Oral antibiotics, such as dicloxacillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) and clarithromycin (Biaxin), are necessary to treat rashes caused by a bacterial infection.

Allergic Dermatitis

Skin allergies can also lead to rashes under the breast. A skin rash due to an allergy is known as allergic dermatitis. Allergic dermatitis is commonly red and very itchy. People with a history of asthma, seasonal allergies or eczema -- dry, flaky, inflamed skin -- on other parts of the body are at increased risk for allergic dermatitis. Allergic triggers vary from person to person, but laundry detergents, perfumes and lotions are often to blame. Topical steroids, like hydrocortisone (Cortizone 10, Cortaid) are the treatment of choice. Long-term use of topical steroids should generally be avoided since they can lead to skin changes and promote the overgrowth of Candida and other fungi.

Psoriasis

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Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder that causes patches of itchy, red, scaly skin. It most commonly affects the elbows and knees. A subtype of psoriasis known as inverse psoriasis, however, develops in skin folds under the arms, in the groin and under the breasts. Authors of a March 2013 article in the "Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine" note that inverse psoriasis is often mistaken for a Candida infection 4. However, psoriasis does not get better with antifungal creams. Topical steroids can be effective, but other psoriasis medications may be needed to prevent flareups.

Reviewed by: Tina M. St. John, M.D.