Definition
Fungal infection causing intense itching and inflammation in the groin region.
Supplement
This type of fungal infection is most common in moist areas of the groin where it causes itch or burning sensation. If the infection persists it may also affect the inner thighs and genital areas, and extend back to the perineum and perianal areas. The affected areas may appear red, tan, or brown, with flaking, peeling, or cracking skin. The rash appears as raised red plaques (platelike areas) and scaly patches with sharply defined borders that may blister and ooze.
The fungus mostly associated with this condition is Trichophyton rubrum. Other fungi are Candida albicans, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum.
Variants: Dhobi itch, Dhobi’s itch.
Word origin: Dhobi is a term referring to a washer-man or laundryman in India.
Synonym: tinea cruris, jock itch, ringworm of the groin.
Dictionary > Dhobie itch
