The skin next to the testicles is itchy The skin next to the testicles is itchy

Itchy skin next to the testicles may be related to factors such as local eczema, fungal infection, contact dermatitis, scrotal pruritus, or tinea cruris. It is recommended to keep the perineum clean and dry, avoid scratching, and seek medical treatment promptly to determine the cause.

1. Local eczema

Scrotal eczema may be caused by sweat irritation, underwear material allergies or hot and humid environment, and manifests as skin erythema, papules and severe itching. You can use topical hormone ointments such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, mometasone furoate cream, or calamine lotion to relieve symptoms as directed by your doctor. Wear breathable cotton underwear every day and avoid hot water washing.

2. Fungal infection

Candida or dermatophyte infection is common in people with excessive sweating and low immunity. It is characterized by annular erythema, scaling and raised edges. Antifungal drugs such as miconazole nitrate cream, bifonazole cream, and oral itraconazole capsules are required in severe cases. During treatment, sterilized underwear should be changed daily and sharing towels with others should be avoided.

3. Contact dermatitis

Detergent residue, condom material or new underwear dye may trigger an allergic reaction, an itchy rash with clear borders. The suspected allergen needs to be stopped and topical zinc oxide borate ointment or tacrolimus ointment should be used. Authors of recurrent relapses recommend a patch test to check for allergens.

4. Scrotal pruritus

Long-term scratching leads to lichen-like changes in the skin, which may be related to mental stress, diabetes or hepatobiliary disease. It is necessary to control the primary disease, use halomethasone cream in the short term to relieve symptoms, and use oral loratadine tablets to fight allergies. Avoid excessive cleaning and the use of alkaline soaps.

5. The spread of tinea cruris

When ringworm spreads from the thigh to the scrotum, it appears as scaly patches with active edges. Topical terbinafine gel and ketoconazole lotion need to be combined, and terbinafine hydrochloride tablets need to be taken orally in stubborn cases. Keep the affected area well ventilated and wipe away sweat promptly after exercise.

In daily life, you should choose loose and breathable cotton underwear to avoid prolonged sitting and severe friction. Use fragrance-free neutral shower gel when cleaning, and the water temperature should not exceed 40°C. If itching lasts for more than 1 week, exudation or fever occurs, scabies, psoriasis and other diseases need to be ruled out, and a fungal microscopy or skin biopsy should be performed as soon as possible. Do not use strong hormone ointments on your own without first being diagnosed by a doctor.