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Jock Itch ( Tinea Cruris)
These lectures are not meant to replace your physician and are simply provided as
a free educational service to all our visitors. If you feel that you have a
skin problem, please see your doctor.
"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 the moisture. When this fungus infects
the feet, it's 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 to the groin.
Prevention
Tinea cruris often comes back. Warmth and moisture encourage the fungus to
grow. You can 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.
For more on Common Skin Disorders,
click here.
For more topics, click here.
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