What causes scrotal itching

Scrotal itching may be related to fungal infection, eczema, contact dermatitis, pubic lice, tinea cruris and other causes. Scrotal itching usually manifests as local skin redness, desquamation, papules or blisters and other symptoms. It is recommended to seek medical treatment in time for a clear diagnosis.

1. Fungal infection

Fungal infection is a common cause of scrotal itching, mainly caused by pathogenic bacteria such as Trichophyton rubrum. Patients may develop annular erythema with raised edges and scaling, and the itching worsens after sweating. You can use antifungal drugs such as bifonazole cream, miconazole nitrate cream, and ketoconazole lotion as directed by your doctor, while keeping the area dry and clean.

2. Eczema

Scrotal eczema is mostly related to allergies or local irritation, and manifests as symmetrical erythema, papules with a tendency to ooze. Excessive scratching may lead to thickening and lichenification of the skin. It is recommended to avoid hot water scalding, wear pure cotton breathable underwear, and use hydrocortisone cream, tacrolimus ointment and other drugs to relieve symptoms if necessary.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact with washing powder, chemical fiber fabrics and other allergenic substances may cause contact dermatitis, with clear-demarcated erythema and edema papules. Patients need to immediately stop contact with the suspected allergen and rinse the affected area with clean water. In severe cases, desonide cream or oral loratadine tablets can be used for a short period of time.

4. Pubic lice

Pubic lice parasitism can cause severe itching, especially at night, and gray-white worms or rust-colored eggs can be seen with the naked eye. Pubic hair needs to be shaved and intimate clothing must be boiled and disinfected. Lindane cream or permethrine cream should be used for comprehensive lice treatment. Sexual partners need to be treated simultaneously.

5. Tinea cruris

Tinea cruris is often caused by the spread of tinea pedis and appears as annular skin lesions with raised edges and pigmentation in the center. Patients should avoid sharing towels with others while treating the primary tinea pedis lesion. Topical terbinafine gel can be used together with oral itraconazole capsules, and the course of treatment needs to last 2-4 weeks.

You should choose loose and breathable cotton underwear for daily use to avoid local moisture caused by prolonged sitting and strenuous exercise. After bathing, dry the scrotal folds thoroughly. Do not use alkaline soap for cleaning. The diet should be light and limit the intake of spicy foods. If the itching lasts for more than 1 week or if suppuration or ulceration occurs, you must see a dermatologist immediately.