What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Fungal Infection of the Groin
• Ringworm Infection of the Groin
• Tinea Cruris Infection

What is Jock Itch? (Definition/Background Information)

• Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris Infection) is a fungal infection that affects the groin, buttocks, the upper thighs, and the region between the two legs
• The group of fungus causing the infection are called dermatophytes (specifically Trichophyton rubrum, other Trichophyton sp. and Epidermophyton)
• The infection causes itching and burning sensation with red rashes, which are noticed on the affected areas
• This contagious fungal infection develops due to prolonged periods of warm-moist or sweaty conditions, wearing of tight clothing, etc. It is very common throughout the world and spreads through contact
• However, Jock Itch is easily treated using antifungal creams and by maintaining a proper hygiene

Who gets Jock Itch? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Jock Itch may infect individuals of any age, gender, race or ethnicity, if factors for fungus growth on the groin region are conducive
• However, it is generally seen with a higher incidence in males, due to the friction caused between the legs by the protuberant genitalia
• Children are rarely affected, however the incidence shows an increase in the post-puberty phase

What are the Risk Factors for Jock Itch? (Predisposing Factors)

The potential risk factors for Jock Itch include:

• Wearing tightfitting underwear and also wearing clothes and sportswear, those which cling on to the lower half of the body
• Sharing items like rugs, bed linens, bath towel, with someone affected by Jock Itch
• Neglecting fungal infections at other locations of the body
• Men are more prone to contract the infection than women
• Obese individuals having many skin folds around the pubic region have a higher risk
• Individuals with a tendency to sweat a lot, leading to prolonged wetness in the groin area
• If the individual has a weak immune system or diabetes, there is a greater susceptibility to fungal infections such as Tinea Cruris Infection
• Those who were infected with fungal infections in the past, or have any inherited skin disorders like eczema, have an elevated risk

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Jock Itch? (Etiology)

Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris Infection is caused by a fungus.

• Mold-like fungi, called Trichophyton rubrum, are normally found on the human body. When the conditions are favorable, they incubate on the groin region causing Jock Itch
• A dry and clean skin does not allow the growth of the fungus. However, damp and warm conditions increase their growth and proliferation, which results in an infection
• Friction cause by the genitals, or tightfitting clothing or underwear, also aid in the growth and multiplication of the fungus, aggravating the skin infection
• Jock Itch can also spread through:
  • Direct contact with an infected individual
  • By using shared items, clothing
  • During sexual intercourse

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Jock Itch?

Jock Itch signs and symptoms include:

• Burning or itchy and stinging sensation that worsen to blister formations on the skin surface at the groin region
• Blister formations appear as red skin patches (dark red on the periphery)
• With passage of time, these red skin patches may blister and burst, exposing the raw, tender skin and tissue inside

How is Jock Itch Diagnosed?

A Jock Itch is visually recognizable and the physician may conclude the diagnosis based on a simple physical examination of the condition. However, the infection is normally confirmed by the following diagnostic tests:

• Potassium hydroxide test (KOH test): A sample of the skin scraping is examined microscopically, to detect the presence of fungus
• Performing a biopsy of the affected skin sample
• A skin culture test
• Wood’s lamp test - the use of ultraviolet rays to check the fluorescent properties of the infection

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Jock Itch?

Complications due to Jock Itch may include:

• The infection may spread to other regions, like the torso, limbs, scalp, etc.
• Recurrence of the infection
• Risk of other opportunistic skin disorders, or other bacterial infections affecting the body
• The lymph nodes may become infected by bacteria leading to conditions, like lymphadenitis or lymphangitis
• Some of the prescription medications may have certain side effects

How is Jock Itch Treated?

The treatment measures for Jock Itch include:

• Most skin-related fungal infections respond well to immediate treatment, with over-the-counter topical antifungal ointments and dry powder applications
• Self-care is essential, which also helps shorten the recovery period. Certain basic steps to be followed include:
  • Regular washing and cleaning with soap of the affected groin area and drying it well, particularly the region between the legs
  • Wearing clean and dry cotton underwear; changing them as often as required
• In order to avoid recurrence of the infection, the antifungal topical creams or have to be applied for an extended period of time (minimum 2 weeks), even after the condition has been controlled
• In case Jock Itch does not get better after a few weeks, the physician may prescribe more powerful medication (both oral and topical) including antibiotics, to prevent any bacterial infection

How can Jock Itch be Prevented?

Some basic steps to ensure the prevention of Tinea Cruris Infection or Jock Itch, especially if the risk factors are high, include:

• If you frequently take part in athletic activities (like swimming), then do take a shower as soon as the activities are completed; wash and dry the groin region well
• If you are specifically vulnerable to the fungal condition, use an antifungal powder daily
• Use clean underwear made of natural materials. Do not wear the same pair continuously, day after day; change or rotate the pairs
• Generally (while at home, or when possible) wear loose fitting clothes that ventilates the spaces between the legs and keeps it dry; even sleeping without wearing an underwear may be helpful
• Fungal infections transmit through contact, hence avoid sharing common items, clothes
• Avoid any sexual contact with your partner, if you (or they) have Jock Itch
• Treat any fungal infection immediately and prevent them from spreading to other regions of the body

What is the Prognosis of Jock Itch? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Jock Itch with appropriate treatment is excellent.

• Depending on the severity of the infection and treatment measures followed, the infection may last anywhere between 2-4 weeks, sometimes longer
• It responds very well to antifungal treatment and good self-care
• In order to prevent its recurrence, the treatment has to be continued, even after all the signs of infection have ceased
• If the infection spreads to other parts of the body (scalp, feet), or other secondary bacterial infections arise, then an extended course of treatment with antibiotics may be required

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Jock Itch:

Individuals with diabetes or other immunodeficiency-related diseases should seek immediate medical advice if they develop Jock Itch.