Jock itch (patient information)

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Overview
Jock itch, also called tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin, is an infection of the groin area caused by fungus.

What are the symptoms of Jock itch ?

 * Itching in groin, thigh skin folds, or anus
 * Red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze -- The patches often have sharply-defined edges and are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center
 * Abnormally dark or light skin

What causes Jock itch ?
Jock itch occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and spreads in the groin area.

Jock itch can be triggered by friction from clothes and prolonged wetness in the groin area, such as from sweating.

Jock itch may be contagious. It can be passed from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with unwashed clothing.

Who is at highest risk?
Jock itch occurs mostly in adult men and adolescent boys. It can sometimes accompany athlete's foot and ringworm. The fungus that causes jock itch thrives in warm, moist areas.

Diagnosis
Your health care provider can usually diagnose jock itch based on how your skin looks.

Tests are usually not necessary. If tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis, either a culture or a skin lesion biopsy (for example, a scraping of the skin) may be done. A KOH (potassium hydroxide) test may be done in the office for quick diagnosis.

When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your doctor if jock itch does not respond to home care after 2 weeks, or you have other symptoms.

Treatment options
Your health care provider can usually diagnose jock itch based on how your skin looks.

Tests are usually not necessary. If tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis, either a culture or a skin lesion biopsy (for example, a scraping of the skin) may be done. A KOH (potassium hydroxide) test may be done in the office for quick diagnosis.

Where to find medical care for Jock itch ?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Jock itch

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Jock itch usually responds promptly to treatment. It is often less severe than other tinea infections, but may last a long time.

Jock itch usually stays around the creases in the upper thigh and does not involve the scrotum or penis. Jock itch may spread to the anus, causing anal itching and discomfort.

Other causes of itching in the groin include:


 * Lichen simplex chronicus
 * Eczema
 * Pubic lice
 * Chemical irritation

Possible complications

 * Permanent change in the skin color of the area
 * Secondary bacterial skin infections
 * Side effects of medications

Prevention of Jock itch

 * Keep the groin area clean and dry.
 * Don't wear clothing that rubs and irritates the area. Avoid tight-fitting and rough-textured clothing.
 * Wear loose-fitting underwear.
 * Wash athletic supporters frequently.
 * After bathing, apply antifungal or drying powders if you are susceptible to jock itch.