What is pruritus scroti?

Pruritus scroti is a common condition characterized by scrotal itching (the skin sac containing the testicles). The condition may occur due to infections, systemic inflammatory disorders, worm infestations, allergies, and tumors. The crotch is warm and moist, which is prone to fungal and bacterial infections and rashes. Also, jock itch (also called tinea cruris), scrotal eczema, allergic reactions, and sexually transmitted infections (STI) are common causes of scrotal itching in many men.
Scrotal itching can be associated with itching in other parts of the body and other systemic signs and symptoms. Laboratory investigations, bacterial and fungal culture, skin biopsy, etc., may be required to diagnose the cause. Treatment involves treating the cause, symptomatic relief, and lifestyle modifications.
What are pruritus scroti signs and symptoms?
Pruritus can affect any part of the body. Pruritus scroti is itching of the scrotum and may not occur with any other noticeable changes on the skin or be associated with the following:
When to see a doctor
It is recommended to see a doctor in the following cases:
- Pruritus that lasts longer than 2 weeks and doesn't improve with home remedies or over-the-counter medications
- Pruritus that interferes with daily routine or affects sleep
- Pruritus begins suddenly and cannot be easily explained
- Affects the entire body
- Pruritus is associated with systemic signs and symptoms, such as
- weight loss,
- fever,
- night sweats,
- yellow discoloration of eyes or skin, or
- dark-colored urine
What causes pruritus scroti?
Causes of pruritus scroti include the following:
- Skin conditions: xerosis (dry skin), eczema (dermatitis), fungal infections, scabies, psoriasis, parasites, burns, scars, insect bites, hives, etc.
- Underlying diseases: Pruritus on the body might be a symptom of an underlying illness, such as
- anemia,
- diabetes,
- liver disease,
- kidney disease,
- thyroid problems,
- multiple myeloma, or
- lymphoma.
- Neurological disorders: multiple sclerosis, pinched nerves, and shingles (herpes zoster)
- Psychiatric conditions: anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, tactile hallucinations, and depression
- Irritation and allergic reactions: Irritation to things, such as
What are diagnostic tests for pruritus?
The doctor would perform a complete physical exam and may suggest the following:
- Blood tests, such as complete blood count
- Tests for thyroid, liver, and kidney function
- Chest X-ray

QUESTION
Eczema (also atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis) is a general medical term for many types of skin inflammation. See AnswerWhat are treatments for pruritus scroti?
Treatment options include the following:
- Corticosteroid creams and ointments: These can reduce inflammation, itching, and redness. The ointments may contain 0.025%-0.1% corticosteroid. It is advised not to use steroid creams for more than 7 days because steroids can cause the skin to thin out. They can also increase the chances of fungal infection in the irritated area.
- Other creams and ointments: Other topical treatments include calcineurin inhibitors that provide relief.
- Oral medications: Medications would include anti-itching medications, antibiotics, or antidepressants depending on the cause.
- Light therapy (phototherapy): Phototherapy uses a specific type of light to control the sensation of itching.
Are there lifestyle and home remedies for pruritus scroti?
The following measures can temporarily relieve itching:
- Avoid irritants.
- Manage stress.
- Use over-the-counter oral allergy medicine, such as diphenhydramine.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer to relieve dry skin.
- Use creams, lotions, or gels that soothe and cool the skin. Some nonprescription corticosteroid creams include calamine lotion or creams with menthol, camphor, capsaicin, or a topical anesthetic, such as pramoxine (for adults only).
- Avoid scratching by covering the itchy areas.
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear and pants.
- Take a bath with lukewarm water and about half a cup (100 grams) of Epsom salts, baking soda, or oatmeal-based bath products.
- Use a mild cleanser.
- Get adequate rest, hydration, and follow a healthy diet.
Kantor, G.R. "What to do about pruritus scroti." Postgrad Med 88.6 Nov. 1, 1990: 95-96, 99-102. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2235790/>.
Top What Are the Symptoms of Pruritus Scroti Related Articles
How to Stop Anal Itching
Anal itching is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, accompanied by the desire to scratch. Causes include everything from irritating foods we eat, to certain diseases, and infections. Treatment options include over-the-counter medications, using moist pads, and gentle cleaning and drying of the anus.What Are the Best Home Remedies for Vaginal Itching?
What Is Vaginal itching? Learn what remedies you can use at home to help to relieve your symptoms. Women may experience vaginal itching inside their vagina or on their external genitals. Some causes include bacterial vaginosis, contact dermatitis, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).Corticosteroids
Oral and injectable systemic corticosteroids are steroid hormones prescribed to decrease inflammation in diseases and conditions such as arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, for example), ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, asthma, bronchitis, some skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions that involve the nose and eyes. Examples of systemic corticosteroids include hydrocortisone (Cortef), cortisone, prednisone (Prednisone Intensol), prednisolone (Orapred, Prelone), and methylprednisolone (Medrol, Depo-Medrol, Solu-Medrol). Some of the side effects of systemic corticosteroids are swelling of the legs, hypertension, headache, easy bruising, facial hair growth, diabetes, cataracts, and puffiness of the face.Eczema
Eczema refers to skin inflammation. There are many different types of eczema that produce symptoms and signs that range from oozing blisters to crusty plaques of skin. Treatment varies depending upon the type of eczema the person has.Fungal Skin Infections: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
Fungal skin infections and fungal nail infections produce symptoms like red, itchy, circular rashes and thick, discolored, flaky nails. Fungal infection treatment may involve topical medication or oral antifungals.How Can I Stop Itching at Night?
Itching at night is a condition referred to as nocturnal pruritus. Stop itching at night by staying away from items or situations that cause itching, keeping skin moisturized, avoiding stress, using allergy medication, and employing other strategies.Is Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris) Contagious?
Jock itch is a fungal infection in the groin area that causes a raised, itchy, red rash. Jock itch can typically be treated with antifungal medications. People may need to seek medical care for jock itch if the groin area becomes swollen, tender, if red streaks appear, or if the lymph nodes become swollen.Itching (Pruritus)
Itching can be a common problem. Itches can be localized or generalized. There are many causes of itching including infection (jock itch, vaginal itch), disease (hyperthyroidism, liver or kidney), reactions to drugs, and skin infestations (pubic or body lice). Treatment for itching varies depending on the cause of the itch.Jock Itch
Jock itch is an itchy red rash that appears in the groin area. The rash may be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. People with diabetes and those who are obese are more susceptible to developing jock itch. Antifungal shampoos, creams, and pills may be needed to treat fungal jock itch. Bacterial jock itch may be treated with antibacterial soaps and topical and oral antibiotics.19 Health Problems in Men: Snoring, Hair Loss, and More
What are the biggest body health issues that plague men? Most men struggle with belly fat, back hair, sweating, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, body odor, or bad breath at some point. Get tips on dealing with male body problems and the prevention of common issues in men's health.Men's Health: Guys, Don't Make These 10 Health Mistakes
Are you making these common mistakes when it comes to your health? WebMD shows you how to be smartwer when it comes to seeing the doctorPhotodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a procedure that treats precancerous cells, in addition to other types of cancer cells. The medical treatment does this with the help of a photosensitizing drug and a light source that activates the applied drug, destroying cancer cells. PDT is approved to treat non-small cell lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and Barrett's esophagus. It treats actinic keratosis, as well as acne, rosacea, skin cancer, sun damage, oily skin, wrinkles, warts, psoriasis, and enlarged sebaceous glands.How Do I Stop My Private Parts From Itching at Night?
Itchy genitals can be a symptom of many different conditions. You can stop your private parts from itching at night by washing them regularly, wearing clean underwear, and eating a balanced diet.What Is the Fastest Way To Cure Jock Itch?
Learn what medical treatments can help ease your jock itch symptoms and help speed up your recovery.