Jock Itch

Also known as tinea cruris, crotch itch or crotch rot,  jock itch is a common skin condition of the groin. It is caused by a microscopic group of parasitic fungal organisms known as dermatophytes (which means plants that live on the skin). Different areas of the body can be affected by fungal infections, including;

• Tinea corporis-Ringworm of the body in general.

• Tinea capitis-Ringworm of the scalp. This is most often seen in children.

• Tinea cruris (also known as Jock Itch)-Ringworm of the groin.

• Tinea barbae-Ringworm of the bearded area of the face & neck.

• Tinea faciei-Ringworm of the face (excluding the bearded areas).

• Tinea manus-Ringworm of the palms & fingers. 

• Tinea pedis  (also known as Athletes Foot) - Fungus of the foot.

• Tinea unguium (onychomycosis) - Fungus of the nails.

The fungus most commonly responsible for jock itch is Trichophyton rubrum. Men are most often affected, but it is possible for females to also develop jock itch. The fungus feeds on old cells on the skin and thrives in warm & moist environments, making the groin area the perfect environment for the fungus.

Causes of jock itch:

Our skin is a host to many organisms including fungal. Normally these are kept in check, however under the right conditions these can thrive & cause infection. Common causes of jock itch include; 

• Sweating in the groin area.
• Wearing tight clothing.
• Direct contact either via sexual contact or shared items (towels, clothing etc).
• Weakened immune system.

Symptoms of jock itch:

Jock itch affects the groin, buttocks & inner thighs. Symptoms may include;

• Infection begins in the folds of the groin & can quickly advance to the inner thighs & anal region. This involves reddish brown, raised patches on the skin with a distinctive raised border.
• Flaking, peeling, or cracking skin in the groin, anal or inner thigh region.
• Itching & burning around the groin, anal, inner thigh & skin folds.

Treatment of jock itch:

Treatment of jock itch is usually fairly straightforward & includes;

• Topical fungicides. These are applied to the affected area.

• If itching is a problem, topical fungicides containing cortisone such as Hydrozole.

• If topical fungicides don't clear the infection after 2 weeks,  a doctor may need to prescribe a stronger oral medication to treat the infection.

• Antibiotics may be necessary to treat secondary bacterial infections.

• Keep the groin area dry. Using a hair dryer around the groin area can help, be careful not to burn yourself though.

• During infection, use a separate towel to dry infected areas to avoid spreading the fungus to other parts of the body. Wash towels after each use in an anti-fungal laundry product.

• Change your underwear daily. Wear natural products such as cotton which allow the area to breathe more.

• Frequently wash bed sheets in hot water.

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Information on this website does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.