Tinea cruris

Definition

Tinea cruris, commonly known as jock itch, is a fungal infection of the groin area. It is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tinea cruris is primarily caused by Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum.
2. Symptoms include itching, redness, and a ring-shaped rash in the groin area.
3. It is commonly treated with topical antifungal medications such as clotrimazole or terbinafine.
4. Practicing good hygiene and keeping the groin area dry can help prevent tinea cruris.
5. Tinea cruris can spread through direct contact or sharing contaminated items like towels.

Review Questions

• What are the primary causative agents of tinea cruris?
• Which part of the body does tinea cruris usually affect?
• Name two common treatments for tinea cruris.

Related terms

Dermatophytes: Fungi that cause skin infections like tinea pedis, tinea corporis, and tinea cruris.

Clotrimazole: A topical antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections.

Mycoses: Infectious diseases caused by fungi.