Jock Itch

When scratching may not be a pleasure!

Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is a superficial fungal infection of the skin of the groin. Most commonly caused by the tricophyton rubrum fungus (T. rubrum), warmth, moisture and frictionfrom clothes or skin contact can increase its incidence. Another causative fungus is candida albicans (C. albicans), the same fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections in women. Jock itch afflicts men more often than women.

Symptoms and treatments

Jock itch usually begins as an itchy, red rash on both sides of the groin fold. It then advances down the inner thigh, with the newly infected areas taking on a scaly appearance and becoming redder than those infected longer. The scaly patches may blister and ooze pus. Prolonged episodes of jock itch may lead to breakdown of the dermal layers.

Jock itch mainly afflicts the groin area but it may spread to areas like the inner thighs, genitals, as well as around the anus or rectum. Jock itch caused by T. rubrum does not affect the scrotum or penis, but C. albicans may.

Since only the upper skin layer is affected, jock itch can be easily treated with topical anti-fungal creams or sprays containing miconazole, clotrimazole or tolnaftate. Some of these creams can be bought over-the-counter (OTC), while prescribed ones may be necessary in certain cases.

The afflicted area should be washed clean and dried using a clean, dry towel. Apply the medication as directed on the label or by your physician. It is recommended that the cream or spray be applied to at least two fingers width beyond the rash area to prevent it from spreading.

To prevent the symptoms from recurring, continue with the treatment for two weeks, or at least a week after symptoms disappear. Consult your doctor if jock itch persists beyond two weeks or if other symptoms occur.

 Prevention really is better

To prevent jock itch, it is essential to keep the groin area clean and dry. Wear loose fitting clothes made out of cotton or materials designed to draw moisture away from the skin surface. Try to towel dry the groin area completely after a shower and before dressing.

To avoid disseminating the fungus, don’t share towels or clothing. Maintain personal hygiene by cleaning clothes thoroughly and often, and wash your hands thoroughly after touching the affected area.

Overly tight clothes do not only look ugly, they can worsen jock itch as well. Look for well-fitting clothes, especially underwear, athletic supporters and sportswear. Anti-fungal powders or sprays can also be used regularly to prevent an infection •