Jock Itch Symptom Definition Slowly expanding pink-red rash on inner thigh near genital area Rash is usually symmetrical (looks the same on both inner thighs) Rash is itchy and not painful In men it does not involve penis or scrotum In women it does not involve vulva General Information Jock Itch is a fungal infection that grows best on the warm, damp skin of the inner thigh. The medical term for this condition is "Tinea Cruris". It is usually caused by the same fungal infection that causes Athlete's Foot. Jock Itch, as the name implies, is much more common in men than women. Most individuals will be able to treat Jock Itch effectively using an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal cream. See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If Penis symptoms or rash, use MALE GENITAL SYMPTOMS Vulvar symptoms or rash, use FEMALE GENITAL SYMPTOMS PUBIC LICE VAGINAL DISCHARGE POISON IVY, OAK, OR SUMAC suspected as cause WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR JOCK ITCH Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If You feel weak or very sick Fever Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If You think you need to be seen You are female (Jock Itch is less common in women) Rash is painful to touch Boil or infected-looking sore is present Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If You have other questions or concerns You are worried you might have a sexually transmitted disease Using over-the-counter treatment for 1 week, and your rash has not improved Using over-the-counter treatment for 2 weeks, and your rash has not completely disappeared Self Care at Home If Slowly expanding pink-red rash involving inner thigh(s) next to scrotum that is itchy; and you don't think you need to be seen Back to Top HOME CARE ADVICE FOR JOCK ITCH Genital Hygiene: Keep your penis and scrotal area clean. Wash this area once daily with un-scented soap and water. After washing, dry the groin area before the feet. (Reason: to prevent spread of tinea pedis to groin area) Keep your penis and scrotal area dry. Wear cotton underwear (Reason: breathes and keeps area drier). Avoid nylon or tight fitting underwear. Over-the-Counter Treatment of Jock Itch: There are a number of over the counter medications for the treatment of Jock Itch. Examples include: Clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) or Miconazole (Micatin, Monistat-Derm) antifungal cream. Read and follow the package instructions closely. Expected Course: The rash should clear up completely in 2-3 weeks. Pregnancy Test When In Doubt: If there is any doubt about the possibility of pregnancy, then obtain and use a urine pregnancy test from the store. Call Your Doctor If: Rash is not improving after 1 week on treatment Rash is not completely cleared by 3 weeks. Fever or pain occurs. You become worse or develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms. Back to Top Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. Adult HouseCalls Online. Copyright © 2001-2005 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP Reviewed 6/8/2005 Revised 6/8/2005 View Index of Topics