Common skin disorders or infections can also cause an inner-thigh rash.
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1.
Chafing
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Reproduced with permission from DermNet and Te Whatu Ora Waikatodermnetnz.org2024.
Chafing(intertrigo) is a common condition that can occur on the inner thighs.
Possible symptoms of chafing include:
Topical treatments usually relieve the rash and can also prevent chafing.
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These include:
2.
Allergic Reaction
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Contact dermatitisis an allergic reaction that happens when the skin becomes irritated by an object or substance.
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If you already have a rash,treatment options for contact dermatitisinclude:
3.
Heat Rash
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Heat rashoccurs when the body is overheated and the sweat ducts become blocked or inflamed.
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This may happen on the inner thighs in hot weather or following a strenuous workout.
Jock Itch
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Althoughjock itch(tinea cruris) is often associated with men, women may also develop it.
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Jock itch is a common fungal infection.
The fungus that causes it thrives in warm, moist places.
Tight-fitting clothing increases the risk of developing jock itch.
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Options for topical treatments include:
5.
Razor Burn
Razor burnis a condition that can affect any area of skin shaved with a razor.
Razor burn goes away on its own over time.
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It is sparked by irritation from the razor.
Swimmers Itch
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These parasites typically affect maritime birds and mammals.
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Infected snails release them in both fresh and saltwater bodies of water.
When swimming in infected water, the parasites burrow into the skin, causing inflammation and an itchy rash.
The itching may last up to one week but gradually disappears.
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Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections(STIs) are spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
Its estimated that more than 9 million women in the United States are diagnosed with one each year.
STIs tend to cause more serious health problems in women, including risk of infertility.
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It affects about one in 10 Americans.
It’s very common in children but affects adults (male and female) as well.
Possible symptoms of eczema include:
Avoiding triggers can prevent these rashes.
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Treatments for existing rashes include home treatment and medication:
9.
Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis is a punch in of psoriasis that develops in body folds, including the groin.
On lighter skin, it causes bright red patches of skin.
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On darker skin, it may look more purple or brown.
Inverse psoriasis often affects people who have other types of psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes skin cells to grow and shed more quickly than normal.
Inverse psoriasis is usually treated with topical medications or prescription drugs used to treat other types of psoriasis.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa(inversa) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the skin.
It is not believed to be contagious and usually first appears in females around the time of puberty.
Both smoking and obesity raise the risk of developing hidradenitis suppurativa.
Treatment options include:
11.
Pityriasis Rosea
Pityriasis roseais a rash that usually affects healthy adolescents and young adults.
It starts with a single “herald” patch, usually on the trunk of the body.
Small lesions then spread to other parts of the body.
Stress Rash
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Astress rashis characterized by hives or welts on the skin.
Avoiding stress is the best way to prevent related rashes.
It can be challenging to differentiate between the several infections or conditions that could be causing your discomfort.
Your provider will begin by inspecting the rash and performing a physical exam.
They will also conduct a thorough medical history, asking about recent trips or exposures.
Your healthcare provider may refer you to adermatologistif needed.
Summary
A rash on the inner thigh or groin area is an uncomfortable experience.
The symptoms and treatment options vary by cause.
See your healthcare provider to determine the cause of your rash and how to treat it.
2020 Jan 6;3(1):4. doi: 10.3390/mps3010004.
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