Tinea cruris is a subacute or chronic dermatophytosis of the groin, pubic regions, and thighs.
Causes of Tinea Cruris
Jock itch occurs almost exclusively in adult men. It can sometimes accompany athlete’s foot and ringworm. The fungus that causes jock itch thrives in warm, moist areas. 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. Jock itch usually stays around the creases in the upper thigh and does not involve the scrotum or penis. It is often less severe than other tinea infections, but may last a long time. 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
Symptoms of Tinea Cruris
- Itching in groin, thigh skin folds, or anus.
- Red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply-defined edges. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center. This may create the appearance of a ring.
- Abnormally dark or light skin.
Diagnosis
A skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination or culture to look for dermatophytes.
Treatment
Prevention After eradication of tinea cruris, ±tinea pedis, ±tinea unguium, reinfection can be minimized by wearing shower shoes when using a public or home (if family members are infected) bathing facility; using antifungal powders; benzoyl peroxide wash.
Antifungal Agents Topical Treatment See Dermatophytoses.
Systemic Treatment If recurrent, if dermatophytic folliculitis is present, or if it has failed to respond to adequate topical therapy. See tinea manuum.
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