This exposure damages the skin’s natural barrier, which can lead to inflammation, maceration, pain and, in many cases, an increased risk of infection. 

There are four main types of MASD^2,3 these are:  

• Incontinence associated dermatitis (IAD): due to moisture from urine and/or faeces exposure.
• Peristomal moisture associated dermatitis: occurring around stomas where effluent or moisture leaks. 
• Intertriginous dermatitis (ITD) or intertrigo: caused by friction and moisture between skin folds.
• Periwound MASD: due to wound exudate overflowing onto surrounding skin.  

The development of MASD is not caused by moisture alone, and can often be exacerbated by: 

• Enzymes, drug metabolites, and ammonia in bodily fluids. 
• Altered skin pH due to ageing or incontinence. 
• Presence of microbial flora, which can contribute to inflammation and secondary infection. 
• Mechanical stress, including friction and shear from movement or personal care routines^1,4. 

Populations at risk 
Individuals with incontinence, reduced mobility, obesity, or chronic wounds are particularly vulnerable to MASD. Individuals at higher risk may also struggle to maintain skin hygiene, increasing the risk of breakdown and infection presentations⁵. 

Assessment of different skin tones 
It’s important to note that MASD can present differently in people with dark skin tones, which can cause a delay in diagnosis and appropriate management⁶. 

For patients with more pigmented skin, traditionally recognised signs such as erythema, or “redness”, can be more difficult to spot. Looking for more subtle colour changes or hyperpigmentation, changes to skin texture, and taking note of patient-reported symptoms⁶ can help detect moisture damage earlier.  

The importance of recognising MASD early 
When left untreated, MASD can progress rapidly and lead to serious complications including infection, delayed wound healing, and secondary pressure damage. Early recognition and appropriate management can help minimise discomfort and improve outcomes⁷. 

Flaminal^®: Advanced treatment for moderate to severe MASD
Flaminal^® is an enzyme alginogel designed to support skin healing in wounds, including moisture damage, without harming healthy skin cells⁸. 

How Flaminal^® Hydro and Flaminal^® Forte support MASD management ?
Flaminal^® is indicated in the treatment for moderate to severe MASD^9,10 and provides effective management for MASD, with benefits that include: 

-Broad spectrum antimicrobial protection¹⁰, including protection against Candida albicans  
-Supports antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), with no recorded antimicrobial resistance to date^10,11. 
-Exudate management: the absorbent alginate matrix within Flaminal^® absorbs excess exudate⁸. 
-Promotes autolytic debridement, helping to gently remove slough and debris⁸. 
-Versatile for MASD of all aetiologies, and for various wound healing challenges⁹. 
-Comfortable for patients, allowing for atraumatic dressing changes even in painful, sensitive areas⁹. 
-Easy to apply even to difficult-to-dress areas, making it ideal for shared care and for use across different treatment settings. 

MASD, particularly moderate to severe MASD, is associated with a range of complications and can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life. The effective management of moisture damage, through appropriate wound care and addressing the underlying source of moisture, can both reduce the risk of infection and further skin damage and support improved healing outcomes for patients.