Jock Itch (cont.)
What are signs and symptoms of jock itch?
Jock itch usually begins with mild intermittent itching in the groin. The
itching can get worse and become unbearable in some cases. The rash is usually
on both sides of the groin and affects the folds.
The rash may become dry, rough, and bumpy, develop pus bumps, or begin to
ooze. Sometimes, the uppermost skin clears as the rash spreads further down
onto the thighs. The itching and rash can spread to the genitals including the
labia, vagina, scrotum, penis, and anus.
Women may also develop vaginal white discharge and yeast infections. Men may
develop infections on the head of the penis, especially if they are not
circumcised.
Severe cases may be very uncomfortable and develop secondary complications
such as breaks in the skin, open sores, ulcers, and rarely cellulitis.
Does jock itch affect the entire body?
Jock itch does not affect the entire body. It is usually limited to the
groin, inner thigh folds, genitals, and anal area. Itching of the entire body is
called pruritus and is generally unrelated to jock itch.
How is jock itch diagnosed?
The diagnosis of jock itch is typically based on the symptoms and skin
appearance.
In some cases, a small skin biopsy may be used to help the doctor confirm the
diagnosis. Skin biopsy (surgically taking a small piece of skin using local numbing
medicine) with histopathological (exam of tissue under the microscope)
evaluation may also be useful in atypical or widespread cases. Sometimes skin
biopsies help to exclude other possible diagnosis. Other times, a skin swab or culture may be taken and sent to the lab
to detect an infectious cause of the jock itch. Usually, no specific laboratory tests are needed in the diagnosis of common
jock itch. Imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans are not useful. A bacterial
culture may be useful to check for bacteria like Staphylococcus on the skin.
Microscopic skin tests and fungal tests using potassium hydroxide may help to
determine if the jock itch is caused by yeast or a fungus. A few other medical conditions
may look just like jock itch and need to be examined more closely by a dermatologist.
Other medical conditions can mimic jock itch. Some possible mimics include
Jock itch may be caused by athlete's foot, also called tinea pedis. The same
fungus that causes athlete's foot in a person may actually spread over to the
groin in some cases. It is important to always check the feet for rashes in
people with jock itch. Spread of the fungus usually occurs when fungal
particles pass onto the crotch of the pants while actually getting dressed. Any
foot infection must be treated in order to avoid recurrence of the jock itch.
Next: Is jock itch curable? Is jock itch contagious? »
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