What Causes Severe Itching In The Groin Area?

Posted on Tue, 17 Oct 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 Answered on

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have severe itching in my groin area during this change of seasons. Several years back I had used ELIDEL in USA. With the continued usage of ELIDEL a kind of skin covering formed on the joint which gave big relief for many years. Now it has come back - I found that Indi an equivalent is called Picon. Should I try this?
I am 75 year old male. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Kindly upload images

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you

I am Dr. kakkar(Dermatologist). I have noted your concern.
Perhaps you have a fungal infection i.e tinea in groins. I request you to kindly upload a few images in "Reports Section" so that I am able to see and confirm and guide you better.
Elidel and Picon are both pimecrolimus 1% cream and is mainly used for eczema and though it may afford partial relief in tinea it is not specific treatment for fungal infection.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (1 hour later)

Thanks Dr.
I have uploaded some pictures for your reference. Hope these are sufficient for your reference.
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Use a topical antifungal+ steroid combination cream

Detailed Answer:
Thank you. I have viewed the images

Yes, it seems like a fungal infection/ intertrigo. Sweat, humidity and constant scratching/ irritation are the underlying factors responsible.
I suggest you to use a topical antifungal and steroid combination cream e.g clotrimazole1% and beclomethasone dipropionate 0 05% cream, twice daily for 4 weeks.
In addition I suggest you to take a tablet of cetrizine 10mg once daily for symptomatic relief from itching.
Once relieved you may then use an antifungal dusting powder (clotrimazole 1% dusting powder) in the groin folds, twice daily to prevent a recurrence. The antifungal dusting powder is soothing, drying and inhibits the fungus.

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad