Here's the Rub: Relief Available for Groin Rashes

Thursday, August 13, 2009

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Medical help can soothe irritating — and perhaps embarrassing — rashes in the groin area. Seeking advice or treatment from a care provider at the first sign of a groin rash or irritation can bring relief. The August issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter covers common groin rashes and treatment approaches.

Intertrigo (in-tur-TRI go): This is one of the more common rashes and occurs when two warm, moist surfaces rub against each other. The chafing traps moisture and results in red, itchy sore skin due to tiny breaks in the skin's surface. This allows for bacterial and fungal growth, such as candida (yeast). Typically, intertrigo is reddish-brown and may ooze and crust over.

Most often intertrigo won't clear up without treatment. A nonprescription zinc oxide or antifungal powder can help, along with keeping the skin dry. If that's not effective, a doctor might recommend antifungal or antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, or diluted vinegar soaks to help kill germs causing the infections. Mild hydrocortisone cream may reduce inflammation.

Erythrasma (er-uh-THRAZ-muh): This bacterial infection can occur along with intertrigo or independently. Affected areas have a reddish color and may be mildly itchy. The antibiotic erythromycin might be useful.

Eczema (dermatitis): Flare-ups of these red to brownish-gray patches are very uncomfortable. Tiny raised bumps may leak fluid and crust over when scratched. Home care includes avoiding harsh, irritating soaps and applying nonprescription anti-itch cream. When these measures aren't effective, a care provider may prescribe corticosteroid creams or ointments. Oral antihistamines also may help.

Inverse psoriasis: This form of psoriasis shows up as smooth, red patches of skin. It's aggravated by friction and sweating and is more common in people who are overweight. Typical treatments include topical corticosteroids or topical inflammatory medications called calcineurin inhibitors. Examples are tacrolimus (Protopic) or pimecrolimus (Elidel).

Jock itch (tinea cruris): This itchy, red and often ring-shaped rash causes a burning sensation. It typically appears in the warm, moist areas of the inner thighs, buttocks and genitals. The cause is dermatophytes (fungi) and, in many cases, the condition will respond to nonprescription antifungal ointments, lotions, powders or sprays. Severe outbreaks may require prescription antifungal topical or oral medications.

Folliculitis: This is an itchy rash made of small, white-headed pimples around hair follicles. It's caused when hair follicles are damaged due to excess sweating or friction with clothes. Sometimes, folliculitis clears up in two to three days. If it spreads or recurs, prescription antibiotic or antifungal medications may be needed.

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