Jock Itch: Symptoms & Treatment

Jock itch, “tinea cruis”, is a common, mildly contagious fungal infection found in moist areas of the body: skin of the inner thighs, buttocks, and surrounding areas. This disorder can affect anyone, but is seen more often in men than women, and commonly contracted in places like locker rooms and public showers; thus the name “jock” itch.

Also called, “Ringworm”, is in fact not a worm but a fungus infection of the outer layer of skin, nails and hair appearing as a red, ring-shaped rash, which gives the false appearance of a worm under the skin. “Tinea”, fungus that causes ringworm, and “cruis”, area where legs join the pelvis is quite treatable.

Though the cause is unknown, the most common ways to come in contact with jock itch is by using contaminated towels, clothing, sports equipment, or direct contact during sexual intercourse with someone who is affected. Increased incidences of jock itch can occur by wearing sweaty, constrictive, wet clothing during hot weather, or wearing several unnecessary layers in colder weather.

The symptoms for jock itch usually start in the groin area and bilaterally advance down the inner thigh with the following: burning, itchy rash in groin, thigh skin folds, buttocks, or anus that usually does not occur on the scrotum or penis; edge of rash may have scaly, red, raised patches which may appear blistered and oozing; center of rash may have discolored skin: abnormally dark or light

A visit to a doctor is recommended for a diagnosis where he or she will examine the appearance of the rash and surrounding skin. If further testing is needed, to avoid misdiagnosis, a skin biopsy may be done to look for hyphae (cell of a fungus) under the skin surface.

In addition to good hygiene and skin care, laundering clothing and sports equipment regularly, and using drying powders, your doctor may recommend a topical cream or spray like lamisil at jock itch. Carefully follow doctor’s recommendations and the instructions on the package of the jock itch medication to insure the full benefits in curing jock itch.

There are many support groups and forums online where you can gain an understanding and tools for prevention as well as an alternative jock itch cure. You can also visit the American Academy of Dermatology.