Tinea Cruris

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Tinea cruris is a common and important clinical problem that may be at times. Tinea cruris, also known informally as crotch itch, crotch rot or jock itch in American English and dhobi itch or scrot rot in British English, is a dermatophyte fungal infection of the groin region in either sex, though more often seen in males. It causes itching or a burning sensation in the groin area, thigh skin folds, or anus. It may involve the inner thighs and genital areas, as well as extending back to the perineum and perianal areas.

What are the symptoms of tinea cruris? Typically the groin becomes itchy and irritable, mainly in the crease between the top of the leg and the genitals. It is more common in men, and the scrotum may also be itchy. A red rash then develops in the groin, usually with a definite edge or border. Both groins are commonly affected. The rash often spreads a short way down the inside of both thighs.

The most common etiologic agents for tinea cruris include Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum; less commonly Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton verrucosum are involved. Tinea cruris is a contagious infection transmitted by fomites, such as contaminated towels or hotel bedroom sheets, or by autoinoculation from a reservoir on the hands or feet.

The rash of tinea cruris usually begins in the top creases of the thigh as raised, red, itchy patches and may become pink or red, flaky or bumpy as it spreads. Anyone with any type of ringworm may spread the infection to other areas on the body. The tinea cruris is easily treated, though it is contagious so it is best to avoid intimate contact or sharing of towels or clothes until it has gone away.

Nonprescription treatment is relatively simple and provides a complete cure when products are used as directed. However, the products are not to be used on any tinea of the scalp or nails, and they are not to be used to treat vaginal yeast infections. They are also not indicated for diaper rash. Products for this condition must not be used near the mouth or eyes. Patients should wash their hands after application to prevent autoinoculation and/or transfer to others.

Tinea cruris may also be treated by applying antifungal medicine thinly with your fingertips, as directed. ” spread the medicine on sparingly and massage it in gently until it disappears. ” to prevent recurrences, continue the antifungal medicine for two weeks after the rash has cleared up. The tinea cruris is good if the treatment is persisted with the newer fungicidal agents and the predisposing causes are corrected. Toes and nails, if infected, must be treated at the same time.

Additial information, see also : Jock Itch

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