Rash in crotch

Ok doc here goes: I have a crotch rash that will not go away. It started about 3-4 weeks ago.  Incidently, I started on Pristiq at that time.  It's on both sides of my scrotum were it meets the leg. It's like crack like lines that go along each leg between scotum and leg.  It is so bad that it bleeds.  I've tried Desitin cream (I have kids) which helps until it wears off.  From what I've read here maybe I should try Lamisil or hydrocortosone.  What do you think.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms 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.

Please 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. Topical zinc oxide cream like Sudocrem, Desitin are very helpful(apply with a paper towel and not directly with hands).Application of mild steroid cream like dermacort also helps. For the itching please take some over the counter antihistaminic like Benadryl or Claritin. In case the symptoms persist then antifungals may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

Hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries. Kind regards.