What Is It?

The term “jock itch” typically describes an itchy rash in the groin of a man. Although there are many causes of jock itch, this term has become synonymous with tinea cruris a common fungal infection that affects the groin and inner thighs of men and woman. Athletes often experience jock itch. Tinea is the name of the fungus; cruris comes from the Latin word for leg.

Jock itch can develop when tight garments trap moisture and heat. This creates an environment in which fungi multiply and flourish. Jock itch occurs more commonly in men, but can affect women as well. The jock itch fungus may cause a rash on the upper and inner thighs, the armpits, the area just underneath the breasts, and the feet (athlete’s foot). Many people with tinea cruris also have athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is called tinea pedis.

A flat, red, itchy rash first appears high on the inner side of one or both thighs. It spreads outward in a ringlike circular pattern while the center partially clears. The border is sharply demarcated, slightly raised and often beefy red in color. Jock itch can spread to the pubic and genital regions and sometimes to the buttocks.

Your doctor often can make the diagnosis just by looking at the rash. He or she confirms the diagnosis by scraping a small amount of irritated skin onto a slide. Usually, fungi can be seen under a microscope. Occasionally, your doctor may send the sample to a laboratory to pinpoint the fungus that’s causing the trouble. Other causes of a rash in the groin include yeast infection of the skin, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.

Jock itch can be treated in a matter of weeks, although it commonly recurs. Treatment for chronic infections may last one or two months.

Your general state of health helps determine your susceptibility to fungal infections. Remaining healthy through diet, rest and exercise is the first step in avoiding fungal infection.

Here are other steps you can take to remain fungus free:

• Keep your body clean.
• Dry yourself well after showers and baths.
• Shower immediately after athletic activities.
• Wear loose clothing whenever possible.
• Do not share clothing or towels with others; wash towels frequently.
• Clean exercise equipment before use.
• Wear sandals in the shower area at the gym and swimming pool.

Most likely, your doctor will prescribe a topical antifungal treatment for you to apply once or twice a day for at least two weeks. If you have athlete’s foot, your doctor should address that as well. Untreated athlete’s foot may cause jock itch to recur.

Because jock itch commonly recurs, you need to be extra cautious. Daily application of a powder such as talc helps keep the area dry. The itching can be alleviated with an over-the-counter treatment such as Sarna lotion. You also should avoid hot baths and tight fitting clothing. Men should wear boxer shorts rather than briefs.

Call your doctor whenever you develop a skin rash.

Treatment for jock itch is quick and usually effective, but the condition often recurs. The following people should be especially vigilant to prevent recurrence:

• Athletes
• People with fungal infections that affect other parts of the body (such as athlete’s foot)
• People who wear tight clothing
• People with damaged or altered immune systems

Diseases and Conditions Center

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.