HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Rashes or Sores in the Groin
Topic Overview
Rashes in the groin or genital area are usually caused by irritation of the skin from many sources, such as clothes rubbing against the skin. Rashes that occur without other symptoms are usually minor and often go away with home treatment.
Contact dermatitis
A common cause of a rash is contact with a substance that causes irritation or an allergic reaction (Reference contact dermatitis Opens New Window). People who work with soaps, solvents, or detergents might splash these liquids onto their clothes at waist level. Over time, the body can develop allergies to these substances.
Contact dermatitis is rarely serious, but it is often very itchy.
Other rashes in groin or genital area
- Reference Jock itch (ringworm of the skin of the groin)
- Reference Scabies Opens New Window caused by tiny mites that burrow into the outer layers of the skin
- Reference Pubic lice Opens New Window
- Reference Yeast infection (cutaneous candidiasis)
- Reference Psoriasis Opens New Window. There are two types of genital psoriasis: inverse and penile. Inverse psoriasis causes bright red patches and may be itchy. Penile psoriasis causes pale red, scaling patches, and does not itch or burn.
- Reference Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Opens New Window. Sores, blisters, or ulcers, especially in the groin or genital area, may be the first symptom of several STIs. If you have a rash or growths in the groin or genital area, do not have sexual contact or activity until you have been evaluated by your health professional. This will reduce the risk of spreading a possible infection to your partner. Your sex partner may also need to be evaluated and treated.
Certain diseases may increase your risk of a serious infection. People with Reference diabetes Opens New Window, Reference peripheral arterial disease Opens New Window, or an impaired Reference immune system Opens New Window may require medical treatment at the first signs of infection.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference March 15, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
