Tinea Cruris (“jock itch”)

What causes tinea cruris?
“Jock itch” refers to any itching groin rash of men and is not a medical term. There are many causes for “jock itch”. When caused by a fungus, the rash is known as tinea cruris. The fungus causing tinea cruris is a microscopic plant that grows in the outer skin and prefers moisture. When this fungus infects the feet, it is called athlete’s foot (tinea pedis).

Contagion
Fortunately, tinea cruris is not contagious. Direct person-to-person spreading is not a problem. The patient’s own case of athlete’s foot is the usual source of infection and reinfection of the groin.

Treatment
Tinea cruris is 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.

Apply nothing else to your groin except water. Cleanse your groin with plain water, since soap aggravates groin rashes. Dry the area thoroughly after bathing.

Tinea cruris usually clears up promptly with antifungal medicines applied to the skin.

Tinea cruris is only one cause of groin itching. If your rash does not improve, please return for further evaluation.

Prevention
Tinea cruris often comes back. Warmth and moisture encourage the fungus to grow. You can help prevent recurrences by drying thoroughly after bathing, wearing loose cotton underwear, and dusting a bland powder on your groin once or twice daily. After swimming, put on dry clothes right away; don’t stay long in a wet swimsuit.


The information provided above is for educational purposes only.  Please do not use this information to diagnose yourself.  If you have further questions or concerns about this topic or any others, please contact a Campus Health Service provider at (520) 621-9202.