Is it Jock Itch?? (penis & leg fold)

[ecariuss]

Hi, About a 1 1/2 weeks ago I noticed a rash in the fold of my skin where my testicles rub against my leg. It looks similar to Jock Itch, only the center of the rash isn't getting lighter. The entire area is bright red, warm, itches and the outer edge isn't very well defined. The outside edge kinda breaks apart with tiny spots around it and without the color fading. Yesterday I woke up and found a 1/2 dime sized area on the shaft of my penis that was kinda dry and flaky, this morning it's the size of a dime and is red, shiny and warm. Any ideas and are these two things related?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like intertrigo. 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.

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.

[Angebelle]

Yes, these abnormal skin patches are related and it sounds like jock itch that's spreading.  I encourage you to use OTC fungal treatments for at least 10 days, but if it gets worse by continuing to spread, then see your doctor for prescription meds.  Hope you find relief in the next week or so!