Infections - Fungal
Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch)
Jock itch; groin ringworm
Very common, especially in warm weather
Yes — spreads by contact and shared items
Yes — with antifungal treatment
What Is It?
Tinea cruris, commonly called jock itch, is a fungal infection of the groin and inner thighs. It causes an itchy, red, ring-like rash with a raised scaly border. It's more common in warm, humid conditions and where skin stays damp from sweat.
Signs & Symptoms
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Itchy, red rash in the groin and inner thighs
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A raised, scaly, well-defined border
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Center may look brownish or clear
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Burning or discomfort, worse with sweat and friction
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Usually spares the scrotum itself
Why Does It Happen?
It's caused by the same fungi (dermatophytes) that cause athlete's foot and ringworm, thriving in the warm, moist groin area. Sweating, tight clothing, and friction encourage it. It often spreads from the feet (athlete's foot) to the groin via a towel or hands. It is NOT a sign of poor hygiene.
Treatment Options
Antifungal creams clear most cases. Keeping the area dry and treating any athlete's foot at the same time helps prevent it from coming back.
ANTIFUNGAL CREAMS
Terbinafine, clotrimazole, or similar for 2–4 weeks.
TREAT THE FEET
Treat athlete's foot too, since it often reseeds the groin.
KEEP IT DRY
Drying powders and loose clothing reduce moisture and friction.
ORAL ANTIFUNGALS
For stubborn or widespread cases that resist creams.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Put socks on before underwear to avoid spreading foot fungus to the groin
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Wear loose, breathable cotton; change out of damp clothes promptly
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Dry the groin thoroughly after showering or sweating
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Don't share towels; wash them in hot water
When to Call Your Provider
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No improvement after 2 weeks of treatment
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The rash spreads, blisters, or oozes
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It keeps returning despite good skin care
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Signs of bacterial infection: pus, swelling, or increasing pain
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Ringworm: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/ringworm-overview
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Ringworm. https://www.cdc.gov/ringworm/about/index.html
DermNet. Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/tinea-cruris
MSD/Merck Manual. Tinea Cruris. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/fungal-skin-infections/tinea-cruris
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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