The primary treatment for candidal diaper rash involves antiyeast topical treatment and decreasing moisture in the diaper area. Nystatin (Mycostatin), econazole (Spectazole), clotrimazole (Lotrimin), and miconazole (Micatin, Monistat-Derm) are topical treatments of equal strength for treating candidal diaper dermatitis. Occasionally, other antifungal creams may be prescribed, such as ketoconazole (Nizoral cream). How long treatment should last has not been completely defined, although, typically, the cream or ointment is applied at each diaper change until the rash is resolved.

Because of the intestinal reservoir of Candida species in most patients with yeast diaper rash, some doctors recommend oral antifungal medications in addition to topical creams. No study has definitively answered the question whether oral antifungal medications are helpful.

Prevent diaper rash by applying barrier creams like zinc oxide (A&D Ointment, Desitin, Diaparene) or petroleum jelly (Vaseline, Aquaphor) to the diaper area after bathing. These products may help to decrease the ambient moisture in the diaper area. Gentle cleaning to minimize skin breakdown may also be helpful.

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