Jock itch

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Definition

Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of your inner thighs, buttocks and genitals. Jock itch causes an itchy, red, often ring-shaped rash in these warm, moist areas of your body.

Jock itch is often caused by the same type of fungus that causes athlete's foot and sometimes ringworm of the scalp. In fact, the fungus that infects your groin area may be spread there from your own athlete's foot infection.

Jock itch gets its name because it is common in people who sweat a lot, like athletes. It also often occurs in people who are overweight, but anyone can get the infection.

Although often uncomfortable and bothersome, jock itch usually isn't serious, except possibly for people with weak immune systems. Keeping your groin area clean and dry and applying topical antifungal medications are usually sufficient to treat the problem.

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Symptoms