Fungal problem and questions

I had a bad itch beginning in my perinium (between anus and scrotum) and it eventually spread to my scrotum and anus a bit as well.  Itched a lot, and soon noticed that I had developed a rash in groin which extended to genitals a bit as well. Red, very itchy. It only occurred shortly after unprotected sex with a female.  Did full sti testing. Doctor said it looked like a fungal infection or yeast, gave me some cream which did very little for a few weeks. Went to family doctor and was given hydrocortisone (sp) and diflucan tablet and it is now gone completely.  Should I be worried about this rash?  Could be fungal intertrigo? How common is this? i was just worried due to the timing of the rash and I consider myself a healthy late 20s male, who works outside and sweats a lot however.  Could I have gotten this from the female through a yeast infection? or is it more related to sweating, friction, heat etc. Can someone with a healthy immune system encounter this type of problem? Thanks doctor

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms that you have described, it looks like intertrigo. An intertrigo is an inflammation (rash) of the body folds. It most commonly occurs due to bacterial, viral or fungal infection. An intertrigo usually appears red and raw-looking, and may also itch, ooze, and be sore. Physical contact can precipitate intertrigo especially which is fungal in nature.

In future keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.