Patient's question:
My male genital area has been itchy lately, and after scratching a few times, it appears like a ringworm, in small circles. It's been this way for several years. I'm wondering if there's anything wrong?Doctor's answer:
Hello: Suspected tinea cruris, the groin area due to moisture and warmth, is prone to fungal infections that can lead to tinea cruris. Common types of tinea cruris include penile tinea (color image), scrotal tinea, and vulvar tinea, mostly caused by Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton, Microsporum canis, and Epidermophyton floccosum. Tinea cruris can be unilateral or bilateral in distribution, with primary lesions being papules or small vesicles that gradually spread outward, forming clear margins slightly elevated above the skin surface. These papules or vesicles merge to form annular patterns, with reduced inflammation and scaling or hyperpigmentation in the center. However, it can also recur, forming multiple annular patterns with severe itching. Occasionally, Malassezia infection may be observed (color image). Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and mycological tests. Treatment involves topical antifungal medications, such as Terbinafine cream. If inflammation is significant and itching is severe, Pramesine ointment can be used, with additional topical Terbinafine powder for enhanced efficacy. Severe cases or recurrent infections may require oral antifungal treatment, such as itraconazole capsules, taken twice daily at 100 mg per dose for 7 consecutive days.