Jock itch is a fungal infection of the groin area of men and women.
Jock itch gets its name because it is common in people who wear tight briefs and sweat a lot, as do athletes, other sport persons and obese/overweight people.
Alternative names
Tinea cruris, Ringworm of the groin, Fungal infection of groin.
Jock itch may be caused by fungi called dermatophytes. The dermatophytes are normal inhabitants of our skin but in areas where skin becomes moist and warm like the groin region if the skin is not dry and clean, the fungi grow out of proportion and causes fungal infection.
The moist, warm and damp environment present at the site helps the fungus to grow and tight rubbing cloths and sweat add to that.
Trichophyton rubrum, Candida albicans, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum are the causative agents with Trichophyton rubrum is the most common.
The infection may also spread by contact during sexual intercourse with an infected person or by using cloths or towels of the infected person.
Being men, obesity, excessive sweating, atrophic dermatitis and immuno-compramised state are the risk factors for the development of jock itch.
Jock itch causes itching or burning sensation of the groin, folds of thigh or anal region. It may spread to inner sides of the thigh, perianal, perineum and genital areas. There may be reddening of the affected area, the area may become tanned or brown. There may be flaking, peeling, rippling or cracking of skin. Infection is usually on both the sides.
It starts in groin folds approximately half inch across. There may be an enlargement of area with sores and rash with raised red plaques. The boarders of the plaques are redder and defined and the plaques may ooze out. The infection grows down the inner thighs.
Laboratory testing of the skin scrapings is done to diagnose jock itch. The scrapings are observed under microscope or grown for cultures to identify the causative agent.
Treatment is topical application of over the counter anti-fungal medications in the form of ointments, creams, lotions, powders or sprays. Steroid is used to relieve itching. In many cases use of oral anti fungal medications too may be required.
Bathing daily, bathing after excessive sweating activity, keeping the area clean and dry, use of thin airy undergarments, use of properly fitting cloths, not sharing personal things and treating the athlete’s foot infection can prevent jock itch infection.
