Persistent Groin Itch

For years (I'm ashamed to say), I've had a very annoying itchiness all over my scrotum, around the base of my penis, around the base of my scrotum, and extending slightly down the insides of my thighs.  I've been checked by 3 different doctors for STDs -- that's not the problem.  I've tried jock itch medicine, and a million-and-one home remedies.  A friend recently suggested it might be excema, and gave me a sample tube of Elocon, which helped somewhat on any given day that I used it, but didn't fully alleviate the itching, or cure the problem.  Plus, various websites say Elocon shouldn't be use on groin/armpits without doctor's advice.  I've changed detergent for washing my underwear -- no joy.  I'm at the end of my rope!  I don't want to live with this itchiness for the rest of my life.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Sounds like eczema to me.  Mild steroids like Elocon are safe to use in the groin.  The condition tends to return, of course, so intermittent treatment is usually needed.  Moisturizing helps too.  Have a skin doctor check you out and prescribe.  Nothing to be ashamed of....

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[sunrise25]

Thanks very much.  Are there any particular moisturizers you would recommend to use when I'm not using Elocon periodically?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Simple ones--Lubriderm, Keri, Nivea.

Dr. Rockoff

[crabybill]

A related discussion, itching in the groin area was started.