red rash

i have had a red rash around my scrotum and crotch area for a few weeks and its very sore and itchy it ouses and looks like it could bleed, i have put sudocrem on it but does not help really .i recently purchased a hot tub and am not sure if it is to blame its clean and all readings on the chemicals are right dont know what to do any help this issue would be appreciated!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be 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.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.