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Jock Itch

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Definition

Rash of the groin and inner, upper thighs caused by a fungus
Much more common in males than females

Symptoms

Pink-red, scaly rash on inner thighs near groin. Often, starts in the groin crease. Then, spreads slowly downward.
In boys, the rash does not involve the penis or scrotum.
Rash is most often the same on both inner thighs.
Rash is itchy, but not painful.

Cause

Jock itch is caused by a fungus. Often, this is the same fungus that causes athlete's foot.
It can come from a towel used to dry the feet and then the groin.
The fungus can only grow in warm, damp skin. Sweating a lot and wearing damp underwear raises the chance of getting it.
Called 'jock itch' because it occurs mostly in teen males who play sports.

How to Prevent Jock Itch From Coming Back

Keep the groin area clean and dry. Reason: the fungus can't grow on dry, normal skin.
Change to dry underwear after playing sports.
Also, avoid wearing underwear that is too tight.
Bring gym clothes home. Wash at least weekly.
If you have athlete's foot, use a separate towel for the feet.

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When To Call

Call Doctor or Seek Care Now

Rash is very painful to touch
Your child looks or acts very sick
You think your child needs to be seen, and the problem is urgent

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

Female
Rash is mainly on the penis or scrotum
Pus is draining from the rash
Rash keeps spreading after 1 week on treatment
Rash is not gone after 4 weeks on treatment
You think your child needs to be seen, but the problem is not urgent
You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

Jock itch rash

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Care Advice

What You Should Know About Jock Itch:

Jock itch is common in teens. It is harmless.
It's caused by a fungus that grows best on warm, damp skin.
Here is some care advice that should help.

Antifungal Cream:

Use an antifungal cream 2 times per day.
Some brand names are Lamisil, Micatin or Lotrimin cream. No prescription is needed.
Put it on the rash and 1 inch beyond its borders. Make sure you put it on in all the creases.
Keep using the cream for at least 7 days after the rash is gone.

Keep Area Dry:

Jock itch will heal faster if the groin area is kept dry.
Wash the rash area once a day with plain water. Dry it with care. Do not use soap on the rash.
Wear loosely fitting cotton underwear. Wash gym shorts and jockstraps after each use.

Try Not to Scratch:

Avoid scratching the area. Reason: Scratching will delay the cure.

What to Expect:

Rash stops spreading after treated for 2-3 days.
With proper treatment, rash goes away in 2-3 weeks.

Return to School:

Children with jock itch do not need to miss any school. Your child may take gym and play sports.
Jock itch is not easily spread to others. The fungus can't grow on dry, normal skin.

Check for Athlete's Foot:

If also has itchy rash of toes or feet, see Athlete's Foot care guide.
Until gone, use a separate towel to dry the feet.

Call Your Doctor If:

Rash is not better after 1 week on treatment
Rash is not gone after 4 weeks on treatment
You think your child needs to be seen
Your child becomes worse

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Barton Schmitt MD, FAAP

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Copyright 2000-2024. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

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