Incontinence refers to your body's inability to control the release of urine or stool. IAD occurs when the protective barrier created by your skin is damaged. Exposure to the bacteria in urine or stool can result in painful symptoms, such as burning and itching.

What does incontinence dermatitis look like?

IAD presents clinically as skin redness with or without blistering, skin erosion or loss of skin barrier function (Junkin and Selekof, 2007). Skin lesions are characterised by erosion of the epidermis and a macerated appearance of the skin (Gray et al, 2007).

How incontinence affects the skin?

The skin areas most affected are near the buttocks, hips, genitals, and between the pelvis and rectum (perineum). Excess moisture in these areas makes skin problems such as redness, peeling, irritation, and yeast infections likely.