Tinea Cruris(ringworm of the groin)

Tinea cruris, also known as crotch itch, crotch rot, Dhobie itch, eczema marginatum,gym itch,
jock itch, jock rot, scrot rot and ringworm of the groin is a dermatophyte fungal infection of the groin region in any sex, though more often seen in males.

Tinea cruris is similar to, but different from Candidal intertrigo, which is an infection of the skin by Candida albicans. It is more specifically located between intertriginous folds of adjacent skin, which can be present in the groin or scrotum, and be indistinguishable from fungal infections caused by tinia. However, candidal infections tend to both appear and disappear with treatment more quickly.It may also affect the scrotum.

Signs and symptoms

As the common name for this condition implies, it causes itching or a burning sensation in the groin area, thigh skin folds, or anus. It may involve the inner thighs and genital areas, as well as extending back to the perineum and perianal areas.

Affected areas may appear red, tan, or brown, with flaking, rippling, peeling, or cracking skin.

The acute infection begins with an area in the groin fold about a half-inch across, usually on both sides. The area may enlarge, and other sores may develop. The rash has sharply defined borders that may blister and ooze.

Causes

Macroconidia from the Epidermophyton floccosum
Opportunistic infections (infections that are caused by a diminished immune system) are frequent.
Fungus from an athlete's foot infection can spread to the groin through clothing.

Tight, restrictive clothing, such as jockstraps, traps heat and moisture, providing an ideal environment for the fungus.

The type of fungus involved is usually Trichophyton rubrum. Some other contributing fungi are Candida albicans, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum.

Prevention
Medical professionals suggest keeping the groin area clean and dry by drying off thoroughly after bathing and putting on dry clothing right away after swimming or perspiring.

Other recommendations are:
not sharing clothing or towels with others, showering immediately after athletic activities, wearing loose cotton underwear, avoiding tight-fitting clothes, and using antifungal powders.

Treatment
Tinea cruris is best treated with topical antifungal medications of the allylamine or azole type.The evidence is best for terbinafine and naftifine but other agents may also work.

The benefits of the use of topical steroids in addition to an antifungal is unclear. There might be a greater cure rate but no guidelines currently recommend its addition.