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TINEA CRURIS(Jock I tch)

BASIC INFORMATION

DESCRIPTIONInfection 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 in women.

It is contagious from person to person.

FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Scaling patches on the skin of the groin, thighs and but-

tocks. 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

Infection by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes.

Contact with infected surfaces, such as towels orbenches.

RISK INCREASES WITH

Hot, humid weather.

Excessive sweating.

Obesity, which fosters sweating.

Friction of skin against skin from constant movement.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Dry thoroughly after bathing.

Dont sit around in a wet bathing suit.

Wear absorbent, loose, cotton underwear.

Wear clean, dry athletic supporters and underwear

for each workout. Use nonprescription tolnaftate (Tinactin) after bathing

if you have had jock itch. This powder discourages

recurrence.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

Symptoms can be controlled in 2 to 3 weeks with treat-

ment. 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).

Copyright 1998 by W.B. Saunders Company.All rights reserved.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURESDiagnostic measures include:

Your own observation of symptoms.

Medical history and physical exam by a doctor ifneeded.

Laboratory studies, including microscopic examina-

tion of scraped-off scales suspended in potassium

hydroxide liquid may be done.

Home treatment measures include:

Bathe with clear water only. Dont 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 athletes foot infection also, trea t both

areas with equal care.

MEDICATIONS

Topical treatment with antifungal medicines such as

clotrimazole, ketoconazole or miconazole or others.

Oral antifungal medication, such as griseofulvin, for

severe cases.

ACTIVITY

No restriction.

DIET

No special diet.

NOTIFY OUR OFFICE IF

You have symptoms of jock itch that dont clear spon -taneously in 5 days.

New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in

treatment may produce side effects.

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