JOCK ITCH (Tinea Cruris) |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Infection of the skin in the groin with one of several fungus germs. These fungi thrive in the groin where darkness, warmth and moisture stimulate their growth. Jock itch is more likely to occur in men than women. It is contagious from person to person.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Scaling patches on the skin of the groin, thighs and buttocks. Patches have well-defined edges. Occasionally small, pus-filled blisters appear.
Itching of involved areas.
Pain (if the skin becomes secondarily infected with bacteria).
CAUSES & RISK FACTORS
Athlete's foot, a fungus infection of the feet that can spread to the groin area.
Contact with infected surfaces, such as towels or benches.
Hot, humid weather.
Excessive sweating.
Obesity, which fosters sweating.
Friction of skin against skin from constant movement.
HOW TO PREVENT
Dry thoroughly after bathing.
Don't sit around in a wet bathing suit.
Wear absorbent, loose, cotton underwear.
Wear clean, dry athletic supporters and underwear for each workout.
Use non-prescription tolnafate (Tinactin) after bathing if you have had jock itch. This powder discourages recurrence.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory studies, including microscopic examination of scraped-off scales suspended in potassium hydroxide liquid.
SURGERYNot necessary nor useful for this disorder.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSSymptoms can be controlled in 2 to 3 weeks with treatment. Recurrences are common.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Contact or allergic dermatitis accompanying jock itch that requires additional treatment, usually with steroid topical applications.
Slow healing.
Secondary bacterial infection in the affected area.
Rash from an "id reaction" (allergic immunological response to the disorder) on the hands and face (rare).
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTNone is usually necessary after diagnosis and prescription of medications by a doctor.
HOME TREATMENT
Bathe with clear water only. Don't use soaps until the skin clears completely. Soap irritates infected skin.
Wear loose cotton underwear.
Change to dry clothes immediately after swimming.
If you have an athlete's foot infection also, treat both areas with equal care.
MEDICATIONYour doctor may prescribe:
Topical treatment with antifungal medicines such as clotrimazole, haloprigin or miconazole.
Oral antifungal medication, such as griseofulvin, if topical medication doesn't bring relief in 7 to 10 days.
ACTIVITYNo restriction.
DIETNo special diet.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of jock itch that don't clear spontaneously in 5 days.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
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