How can I get rid of the dark patch in my groin?
Answered by: Dr Rishi Parashar
| Consultant, Department of Dermatology,
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital,
New Delhi
Q: I had fungal infection between my thighs 15 years back. I did not show it to any doctor, which worsened the infection and it became chronic. I am getting married soon. The infection has created a dark patch between my thighs. Currently I am applying Zole-F for the last 2 days. There is no itching. How can I get rid of the patch?
A:You are suffering from Tinea cruris. It is an acute or chronic fungal infection of the groin, perineum, and perianal region. This is more commonly seen in men.
The predisposing causes include:
The temperature, humidity, and occlusion of the scrotum and groin area, especially related to the clothing, are ideal for the development of these fungi.
Both direct contact between infected individuals and indirect contact with non-living contaminated objects (towels, clothing, bed linens, urinals, and bed pans) are ways of transmission.
Tropical climates and summer months in temperate regions appear to promote higher rates of this infection.
Topical therapy (clotrimazole, ketaconazole, terbinafine, fluconazole, oxiconazole etc) is usually enough to cure tinea cruris. Oral anti fungal agents such as griseofulvin, terbinafine, ketoconazole, itraconazole or fluconazole are reserved for widespread and severely inflamed cases. Rates of relapse for this infection are very high, therefore hygiene measures are crucial for long term success. They should include thorough drying, the use of well-ventilated clothing, and separate towels for the groin area.
Once the infection is completely eradicated - only then will the normal colour reappear and this may take months, if not years. Occasional treatment with Zole-F, as in your case, will always end in disappointment and recurrence.
