Unidentified Rash; Help???

Hello everyone. So I've had a rash of some sort between my upper thighs, and scrotum. My scrotum itself doesnt seem to be irritated at all, but my upper thighs have a fiery red, burning rash on them. Ive had a similar rash infrequently for the past 4 years or so, maybe once a year, but it usually goes away after two days or so. Ihave been taking extra care to dry the area regularly, and have switched underwear, as I know that boxers tend to bunch and roll, and this exasperates the area. Ive looked up all kinds of skin rashes and conditions, and it doesnt seem to fit any one bill. It burns, not itches, it isnt raised, or scaley, or even dry looking. It has no raised bumps or ridges in it at all. Its fiery red, and has a certain moistness to it even when just frequently dried off. It doesnt look like anything I have seen pictures of either. Does anyone out there have any ideas?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like intertrigo. 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.

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.