Jock Itch- Tinea Cruris

Jock Itch- Tinea Cruris

Jock Itch- Tinea Cruris

Physicians frequently see a skin condition called Tinea cruris or, "Jock Itch." It is usually caused by the opportunistic dermatophyte fungus, Tinea rubrum. This particular fungus likes conditions which are dark, moist, and warm as do most all fungus. This is exactly what is found in the human groin area. If that condition is further enhanced by a wet jock strap or tight brief leg bands, circumstances are right for the skin to be invaded by this fungus. It usually starts as half-inch reddened bands in the leg/groin folds. It is usually reddened, irritated, scaling, and cracking. As the fungus sets up house, it starts growing down the inner aspect of the thighs. In patients with immune defense problems like diabetes or HIV, the rash can become quite extensive and severe. If tight, moist clothing or athletic accessories are worn, the rash easily can spread. Tinea Cruris itches and burns and are very hard not to scratch it. However, scratching can introduce a bacterium which causes a mixed infection as well as opening the cracked skin further for additional infections.

Most jock itch rashes can be treated with a 1-2 week course of topical antifungal cream. If the rash is too extensive, sometimes the patient has to take an oral antifungal medication. A topical cortisone cream can be prescribed for itching and edema while the topical or oral antifungal medicine is killing the fungus. An essential part of treatment consists of changing the environment in the groin area. The affected area should be washed daily with gentle soap or baby shampoo and patted dry or air dry with blow dryer on cool setting. Use a soft wash cloth or soft scrub brush to wash twice and liberally rinse with warm water. Underclothing should be loose like boxer shorts, or perhaps none worn at all. Exposing the rash to a fan can cool and dry the area or a blow dryer with very low heat. Exposure to sunlight can help in the healing process. Change underpants and pants twice daily for several days.

Physicians can usually confirm the presence of a fungus by looking at a rash scraping under the microscope. The typical branches which wind around the skin cells can easily be seen. Try to prevent the fungus if you can. If it occurs, a quick trip to your physician can result in a timely cure. Most physicians may just make diagnoses by history, area affected, and clinical inspection.

John Drew Laurusonis

Doctors Medical Center

www.doctorsmedicalctr.com

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