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Jock Itch

Definition:
Jock itch, also called tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin, is an infection of the groin area caused by fungi.

Alternative Names:
Fungal infection - groin; Infection - fungal - groin; Itching in the groin; Ringworm - groin; Tinea cruris; Tinea of the groin

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others can multiply rapidly and form infections. Jock itch occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies in the groin area.

Jock itch occurs almost exclusively in adult men. It can sometimes accompany athlete's foot and ringworm. The fungus that causes jock itch, thrives in warm, moist areas. Your risk of getting jock itch is increased by friction from clothes and prolonged wetness in the groin area (such as from sweating).

Jock itch may be contagious. It can be passed from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact or by contact with contaminated items such as unwashed clothing. Jock itch usually stays around the creases in the upper thigh and does not involve the genitals (scrotum or penis). It is often less severe than other tinea infections, but may last a long time. Jock itch may spread to the anus, causing significant anal itching and discomfort.

Other causes of itching in the groin include:

For itching of the groin in women, see vaginal itching.



Review Date: 8/5/2003
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Glen H. Crawford, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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