Date updated: June 01, 2009
Content provided by National Institute of Health

Also called: Fungal infection groin, Infection fungal groin, Itching in the groin, Ringworm groin, Tinea Cruris, Tinea of the groin

Fungal infections are very difficult to treat and are prone to relapse once the treatment is stopped. Fungal infections can affect any part of the body. Fungal infection of the groin is known as Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris. The human body is home to a number of bacteria and fungus. Some of these pathogens are beneficial while some are harmful. All fungal infections are characterized with intense itching. Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies in the groin area. Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris occurs almost exclusively in adult men. The fungus that causes Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris thrives in warm, moist areas. Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris can be triggered by friction from clothes and prolonged wetness in the groin area such as from sweating. Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris may be contagious. It can be passed from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with unwashed clothing. Other causes of Itching in the groin include "Lichen simplex chronicus, Eczema, Pubic lice, Chemical irritation etc". Jock Itch or Tinea Cruris is characterized by red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply-defined edges and are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center.