November 6, 2023 Author : Filipa Meneses Jock itch technical name is tinea cruris . This mycosis belongs to the group of skin infections caused by fungi called dermatophytosis; The fungus responsible for jock itch is called Trichophyton rubrum; It is one of the most common dermatophytosis; In addition to the groin, this mycosis can also affect the genital area, buttocks and thighs . Who can have jock itch Anyone can have jock itch. However, this is more common : In men, especially adolescents and young adults; When wearing tight clothing; In people who sweats a lot (hyperhidrosis); In those who practice contact sports; When there is as immunity breakdown; In people who have athlete's foot; In people who have diabetes, psoriasis, obesity, among other diseases. The infection occurs through contact with the fungus , either in lesions of infected people or in contaminated objects, for example clothing. There may also be a self-contagion, that is, contact with other areas of the body where there is a dermatophytosis, for example athlete's foot. Trichophyton rubrum can also live on the skin without causing any problems, but multiply and cause an infection when there are conditions that favor it, mainly the heat and humidity of the skin. Symptoms and diagnosis In groin mycosis, the most common symptoms are: Redness; Pruritus (itching); A red spot that expands: Expansion is for the thighs and buttocks, particularly for warm and moist skin areas, such as skin folds. The center of the spot becomes lighter as it expands. Small bubbles or vesicles may form, particularly on the spot edge. There may be skin peeling. Symptoms and observation are usually enough for diagnosis . If deemed necessary, skin scrapings may be taken from the lesions, followed by observation under a microscope to identify the fungus. Treatment and prevention of jock itch These infections are generally mild and not serious and are treated with locally applied antifungal medications (creams and ointments) and care similar to prevention , disappearing in 1-3 weeks. In cases that do not respond to local treatment, oral medication may be necessary. Prevention of jock itch includes avoiding the creation of a hot and humid environment, which is favorable to the development of fungi through: Maintain adequate hygiene , with bathing/washing daily and repeated if necessary (after exercise, for example); Do not bathe in very hot water and, after bathing, dry the genitals and groin area well ; Do not wear tight clothing , prefer boxers (for men) and cotton underwear; Do not keep wet or damp clothing on body , for example after exercising; If there is athlete's foot, avoid contact ; Maintain an adequate weight and eat a healthy diet . When to seek medical care Whenever there is no improvement in 1-3 weeks with local treatment, or there is pain or fever, medical attention should be sought. Meet the general and family medicine clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
