Definition

• Fungus infection and rash of the groin and inner, upper thighs
• Jock itch is also called ringworm of the crotch
• Much more common in males than females

Health Information

Symptoms

• Pink-red, scaly rash on inner thighs near genital area. Often, starts in the groin crease. Then spreads slowly downward.
• In boys, the rash does not involve the penis or scrotum.
• Rash is most often the same on both inner thighs.
• Rash is itchy, but not painful.

Cause

• Jock itch is caused by a fungus. Often, this is the same fungus that causes athlete’s foot.
• It can come from a towel used to dry the feet and then the groin.
• The fungus can only grow in warm, damp skin. Sweating a lot and wearing damp underwear increases the chances of getting it.
• Called jock itch because it occurs mostly in teen males who play sports.

Prevention of Recurrent Jock Itch

• Keep the genital area clean and dry. Reason: the fungus can’t grow on dry, normal skin.
• Change to dry underwear after playing sports.
• Also, avoid wearing underwear that is too tight.
• Bring gym clothes home. Wash them at least weekly.
• If you have athlete’s foot, use a separate towel for the feet.

Care Advice

1. Overview:
   • Jock itch is common in teens. It is harmless.
   • It’s caused by a fungus that grows best on warm, damp skin.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Antifungal Cream:
   • Use an antifungal cream 2 times per day.
   • Examples are Lamisil, Micatin or Lotrimin cream. No prescription is needed.
   • Put it on the rash and 1 inch beyond its borders. Make sure you apply it in all the creases.
   • Continue the cream for at least 7 days after the rash is gone.
3. Keep Area Dry:
   • Jock itch will heal faster if the groin area is kept dry.
   • Wash the rash area once a day with plain water and dry it carefully. Do not use soap on the rash.
   • Wear loosely fitting cotton underwear. Wash gym shorts and athletic supporters after each use.
4. Try Not to Scratch:
   • Avoid scratching the area. Reason: Scratching will delay the cure.
5. What to Expect:
   • Rash stops spreading after treated for 2-3 days.
   • With proper treatment, rash goes away in 2-3 weeks.
6. Return to School:
   • Children with jock itch do not need to miss any school. Your child may take gym and play sports.
   • Jock itch is not easily spread to others. The fungus can’t grow on dry, normal skin.
7. Check for Athlete’s Foot:
   • If also has itchy rash of toes or feet, follow care advice for Athlete’s Foot.
   • Until gone, use a separate towel to dry the feet.

Call Your Doctor If

• Rash is not better after 1 week on treatment
• Rash is not gone after 4 weeks on treatment
• You think your child needs to be seen
• Your child becomes worse

Author: Barton Schmitt MD, FAAP

Copyright 2000-2020 Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC