Tinea Corporis Tinea Cruris

Tinea is the fungus that causes ringworm, jock itch and athlete’s foot or in medical terms tinea corporis, tinea cruris and tinea pedis respectively. These infections are typically not serious, but they can be extremely uncomfortable. They can be contracted by touching or contact with an infected person, from damp surfaces such as shower floors, or even from a pet.

Tinea corporis, is the name given to a fungus infection of the skin also called “ringworm of the body,” and often affects children and adults who live in hot, humid climates. The typical appearance of this infection is a circular plaque with a well outlined border. Since tinea corporis can be asymptomatic, it can spread rapidly among children and in day-care and school settings.  It may be spread from person to person, from contact with an infected animal, most often a cat, or from exposure to fungus in the soil. Itchy red scaly patches come up anywhere the animal has rubbed. They often develop into a ring. This kind of tinea usually clears up with appropriate creams.  If the condition was transferred by an animal, even if it has no signs of a skin problem the animal will need to be treated also.

Tinea cruris is usually referred to as “jock itch,” because as this condition implies, it causes itching or a burning sensation in areas of the groin, thigh skin folds, or anus.  It may involve the inner thighs and genital areas. Unlike yeast infections, tinea cruris generally does not involve the scrotum or the penis.  It is very common and affects men more often than women and rarely affects children.

The itchy red patches will spread in the warm moist areas of the body. Variations of red, tan, or brown coloration may appear in the infected areas.  Flaking, rippling, peeling, or cracking skin will also be present. Tinea cruris is often treated with antifungal drugs topically applied. Topical therapy is adequate in most patients with tinea cruris.  Oral therapy is the preferred treatment in cases where the infection spreads to the lower thighs or buttocks,. Customarily creams containing anti-fungal agents work by deterring the fungi from producing a substance called ergosterol, which is a necessary part of fungal cell membranes. If ergosterol synthesis is completely or partially blocked, the cell is no longer able to produce an intact cell membrane. This effectively kills the fungus.