Jock itch
Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is a fungal infection characterized by a red, itchy rash that typically appears in the groin, upper inner thighs, or buttocks. It primarily affects men but can occur in women, especially in hot and humid conditions where fungal organisms thrive. The infection is commonly caused by the fungus *Epidermophyton floccosum*, which often proliferates due to factors like heavy perspiration, tight clothing, infrequent showering, and wearing damp clothing. Symptoms include a chafed rash that may be painful and scaly, often clearly defined at the edges.
Diagnosis is usually straightforward, based on the appearance of the rash, but may require lab tests if the diagnosis is uncertain. Treatment typically involves over-the-counter antifungal creams, with options like miconazole and terbinafine being effective. For persistent cases, stronger prescription medications may be warranted. Preventive measures include maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and avoiding damp environments. Understanding these aspects of jock itch can empower individuals to seek appropriate treatment and prevent recurrence.
Jock itch
- ANATOMY OR SYSTEM AFFECTED: Skin
- ALSO KNOWN AS: Tinea cruris
Definition
Jock itch is a fungal infection of the skin on the groin, upper inner thighs, or buttocks. It most commonly occurs in hot, humid conditions. Doctors often refer to jock itch as tinea cruris.
Causes
Jock itch is caused by common fungal organisms that grow best in warm, moist areas. Jock itch can affect women but most commonly affects men, especially men who perspire heavily. The fungus that causes jock itch most often results from wearing wet, damp, or unlaundered clothing (such as underwear or an athletic supporter); sharing towels that are infected with jock itch fungus; and infrequent showering, especially after exercising or perspiring heavily from work.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for jock itch include hot, humid conditions; heavy perspiration; obesity; tight clothing; wearing clothes, especially underwear or athletic supporters, that have not been cleaned; changing underwear infrequently; infrequent showering; sharing towels or clothing with other people; using public showers or locker rooms; and having an immune system disorder.
Symptoms
Jock itch causes a chafed, itchy, sometimes painful rash in the groin, upper inner thigh, or buttock. The rash is usually red, tan, or brown; usually defined clearly at the edges; and often slightly scaly. In some cases, the skin discoloration from jock itch may be permanent.
Screening and Diagnosis
Jock itch often can be diagnosed based on the appearance and location of the rash. However, other skin problems may look like jock itch. If uncertain of the diagnosis, one should contact a doctor, who will ask about symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. In some cases, the doctor will order a lab test of the infected skin area. Testing usually consists of a skin scraping that can be viewed under a microscope or cultured.
Treatment and Therapy
Over-the-counter antifungal creams can usually treat jock itch. Creams or lotions work better on jock itch than do sprays. In severe or persistent cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger creams or oral medication. One should use the prescription for the entire time that the doctor recommends. This will help prevent recurrence of the rash. If the rash does not resolve within a month of treatment, one should contact the doctor.
Antifungal creams for jock itch include miconazole, clotrimazole, econazole, oxiconazole (Oxistat), ketoconazole, terbinafine (Lamisil), tolnaftate, ciclopirox (Penlac), haloprogin (Halotex), naftifine (Naftin), and undecylenic acid. While all these medications can effectively treat jock itch, terbinafine may lead to a more rapid cure than some of the others. Tolnaftate and undecylenic acid may be less effective than some of the other medications, but as generics, they are generally among the least expensive treatments available. Creams are usually applied twice daily for two to four weeks. One should follow the instructions given on the package or by the pharmacist or physician.
One should not use antifungal creams that are recommended specifically for athlete’s foot. These creams may be too harsh for the groin. In some cases, over-the-counter antifungal creams may not work or effectively treat the rash. In these cases, the doctor can prescribe a stronger antifungal cream.
If the jock itch rash begins to ooze, one should contact the doctor. This symptom may indicate that the rash could be secondarily infected with bacteria. If the doctor confirms that it is infected, they may prescribe an antibiotic.
Prevention and Outcomes
To help prevent jock itch and its recurrence, one should shower regularly and shower soon after exercising or perspiring heavily. After showering, one should dry the groin area thoroughly and apply absorbent powder to help keep the groin area dry; wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing; wear cotton underwear; avoid wearing clothing that chafes the groin; always launder clothing, such as underwear and athletic supporters; avoid sharing towels or clothing with others; avoid wearing wet swimsuits for long periods of time; and avoid storing damp clothing in a locker or in a gym bag.
Bibliography
Berger, T. G. “Dermatologic Disorders.” In Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment 2011, edited by Stephen J. McPhee and Maxine A. Papadakis. 50th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Medical, 2011.
Fleischer, Alan B., Jr. The Clinical Management of Itching. New York: Parthenon, 2000.
"Jock Itch." MedlinePlus, 31 May 2023, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000876.htm#. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
Nadalo, D., et al. “What Is the Best Way to Treat Tinea Cruris?” Journal of Family Practice 55, no. 3 (2006): 256-258.
Porter, Robert S., et al., eds. The Merck Manual Home Health Handbook. 3d ed. Whitehouse Station, N.J.: Merck Research Laboratories, 2009.
Richardson, Malcolm D., and Elizabeth M. Johnson. The Pocket Guide to Fungal Infection. 2d ed. Malden, Mass.: Blackwell, 2006.