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Tinea cruris Causes and Risks:
Occasionally, itching in the groin can result from chemical irritation (see vaginal itching ). Other causes include lichen simplex chronicus , eczema , and pubic lice .
Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a common skin disorder that occurs almost exclusively in adult men. It can sometimes accompany athlete's foot ( tinea pedis ) and other tinea infections. The fungi that cause tinea infections, such as jock itch, thrive in warm, moist areas. Susceptibility to tinea infection is increased by friction, poor hygiene, prolonged moist skin, and minor skin or nail injuries.
Most cases of itching in the groin in males is caused by tinea cruris or similar fungal infections. The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, mold-like fungi (dermatophytes) and yeast-like fungi (such as Candida). Some of these are useful to the body. Others can multiply rapidly and form infections. Fungal infections are caused by microscopic plants (fungi) that can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.
Tinea infections are contagious and can be passed from direct contact or contact with items such as clothing. Jock itch is usually contained to the groin and usually does not involve the scrotum or penis . It is generally less severe than other tinea infections, but may be persistent. Jock itch may be a cause of intractable pruritus ani (anal itching and discomfort).
Prevention:
Good general hygiene is vital in the prevention and treatment of jock itch. After bathing, antifungal or drying powders may be used as prevention if a man is susceptible to jock itch.
Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid chafing . Underwear should be loose fitting. Avoid rough textured clothing. Launder athletic supporters frequently.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
Diagnosis is primarily based on the appearance of the skin. A skin lesion biopsy (most commonly, scraping of the skin) with microscopic examination or culture may show the dermatophyte that causes jock itch. This test is not always necessary.
Treatment:
Care should be taken to not overtreat jock itch, because it can cause side effects.
Jock itch usually responds to self-care:
Keep the skin clean and dry, and avoid chafing . (See Prevention.) Topical (applied directly to the skin) over-the-counter antifungal or drying powders, such as those that contain miconazole or clotrimazole, are often effective in control the infection.
Severe or chronic infection may require further treatment by the health care provider. Oral antifungal medications may be given. Stronger prescription medications, such as those containing ketoconazole or sulconazole, may be needed. Antibiotics may be needed to treat secondary bacterial infections.
Prognosis:
Jock itch usually responds promptly to treatment but may be persistent.
Complications:
- permanent discoloration of the area
- secondary bacterial skin infections
- overtreatment dermatitis
- side effects of systemic medications (see the specific medication)
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if jock itch symptoms do not respond to home treatment, or if there are other symptoms associated with the problem.
This is a fairly typical presentation for tinea cruris, sometimes called jock itch. It is a fungal infection (also called ringworm) which usually involves the pubic area, inner thighs, and buttocks. It is most commonly a disease of adolescent and young adult males.
Tinea cruris is an infection of the skin caused by a fungus. It may affect the skin in the groin, inner thighs, gluteal fold, and genitalia. This condition is sometimes referred to as jock itch. It can now be effectively cured with over-the-counter antifungal preparations.
Jock itch, tinea cruris. The area infected is usually moist and warm.
This is a common appearance of "jock itch." The area infected by fungus is usually moist, warm, and as the name says, pruritic (itchy).
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