DEAR READERS:
C.S. from Bridgeport, St. Catherine, complains of a recurring itching between her legs and on her pubic region where hair grows.
The itching was at first associated with spots which have since cleared up but, the itching continues. C.S. was told by a doctor that she had a skin fungus but the itching continues despite several treatments. The itching stops while on treatment but, soon recurs after the medication is completed. C.S. says she cannot bear it anymore. Can she be cured?
There are several possible causes of itching. When this itch is restricted to the pubic region and between the upper thighs to the groin, a fungal skin infection is the most likely culprit, but C.S. has been treated for this several times. One wonders however, if she has a sexual partner, and if so, has the partner also been treated?
Tinea cruris or jock itch is a very irritating problem caused by a fungal infection in the groin area. The fungus is very similar to ring worm and athletes foot and is actually more commonly found in men than in women. This infection is not serious but can be persistent and recurrences are common.
Tight clothing, sweating and heat tend to exacerbate the growth of the fungus. Some individuals may have a reaction to ingredients used in some of the topical treatments used for this condition which complicates the disorder by causing local inflammation and further itching.
Of course, if only one sexual partner is treated, the site of this rash and the intimate nature of the contact means that despite treatment, reinfection can easily occur.
Other conditions which can lead to a chronic itching of the pubic region and groin are contact dermatitis, where the person is allergic or sensitive to the fabric of the underwear or other clothing worn, or allergic to sanitary pads or feminine perfumes used in the groin area.
Psoriasis, another chronic itching condition affecting the skin, can also be confused with jock itch.
The treatment modalities for jock itch, contact dermatitis and psoriasis differ significantly. If treatment of a suspected condition fails repeatedly after all care has been taken with medication and personal hygiene and the treatment of partners, it is then time to visit the consultant dermatologist for a specialist opinion.
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