A breast fungus is a skin fungal infection under the breast, on the skin folds between the breast and chest wall. Like all types of skin fungus, a breast fungus tends to thrive in a warm, dark and moist environment and the area under the breast provides this ideal environment. A breast skin fungus is often a candida infection of the skin and is known as submammary candidiasis or cutaneous candidiasis.
What Causes a Fungal Infection under the Breast?
Causes of Breast Fungus
A breast fungus is caused by skin fungi, either a dermatophyte (mold) or yeast (candida). The candida type of fungus is more often involved but a dermatophyte may also be responsible. A breast fungus often occurs in women with larger busts, either due to a naturally large bust, breast augmentation (breast enlargement), breastfeeding and pregnant women. A fungal infection will not affect every woman and is more often in women who wear tight brassieres (bra) or have a pre-existing skin disorder on the affected area, like psoriasis, eczema or seborrheic dermatitis. Constant scratching in itchy skin conditions or minor cuts caused by tight bras (intertrigo) exposes the area to a fungal infection. A skin fungal infection elsewhere on the body may also be transferred to the area under the body by carrying fungal strands and spores on the fingernails or using a common piece of clothing or towel.
Picture of Breast Fungus from DermAtlas
What does Fungus under the Breast look like?
Signs and Symptoms of a Breast Fungus
A breast fungus presents similar to other types of skin fungal infections. There is inflammation of the skin, appearing red and swollen initially. The condition is usually itchy with dark brown specks noticed after scratching or within the clothing and bra. Moisture may be noticed on the affected area with a musty odor. With time, a dark discoloration of the skin under the breast will occur and the skin becomes rough and dry.
How is Fungus under the Breast Treated?
Treatment of a Breast Fungus
Antifungal ointments are effective in eradicating the fungal infection and should be continued for 6 weeks to 2 months to prevent any recurrence of the infection. Drying agents like antifungal powders should be used as a preventative, especially after bathing. If the skin irritation persists after the fungal infection resolves, a mild corticosteroid cream can be used to relieve itching and assist with normal skin growth.
How to Prevent a Fungus under the Breast
Prevention of a Breast Fungus
- Always ensure the affected area is thoroughly dried with a towel after you bathe.
- Use properly sized bras. ‘Push up’ bras should be avoided.
- Try to ventilate the area with thin, cool clothing.
- Avoid scratching the affected area as it allows the fungus to persist.
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