Alternative Names
Fungal infection – groin; Infection – fungal – groin; Itching in the groin; Ringworm – groin; Tinea cruris; Tinea of the groin
Definition of Jock itch
Jock itch, also called tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin, is an infection of the groin area caused by fungus.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The body normally hosts a variety of 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.
Signs and tests
Your doctor will usually diagnose jock itch based on the appearance of the skin. Tests are usually not necessary. If tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis, either a culture or a skin lesion biopsy (for example, a scraping of the skin) may show the fungus that causes jock itch.
Treatment
Jock itch usually responds to self-care within a couple of weeks:
Expectations (prognosis)
Jock itch usually responds promptly to treatment, but some cases last a long time.
Review
Michael Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 4/17/2009
