Symptoms
Genital rash symptoms can be different due to the underlying cause.
These are symptoms ofanaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Jock Itch
Jock itch(tinea cruris) is a fungal infection most commonly associated with theTrichophytongenus of fungi.
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Jock itch is characterized by an itchy, red rash on the groin, buttocks, and thighs.
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If the immune system is weakened, the fungus can grow out of control.
Flu-like symptoms may also accompany the rash.
Genital Warts
Genital wartsare sparked by thehuman papillomavirus(HPV) and are spread by intimate skin-to-skin contact.
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Genital warts usually appear as a small bump or group of bumps on the genitals or anus.
They can be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower.
Unlike some types of HPV, those that cause warts usually do not progress to cancer.
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5.
The lice are most commonly spread by sexual contact.
The main symptom is intense itching due to a hypersensitive reaction to the parasites saliva.
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In addition to tiny, dark bumps on the skin, there may also be a gray-blueish skin discoloration.
Syphilis
Syphilisis a common STI sparked by the bacteriaTreponema pallidum.
The condition causes inflamed, swollen bumps that break open and ooze fluid or pus.
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Intertrigo
Intertrigo(intertriginous dermatitis) is known as diaper rash in babies.
Intertrigo causes a swollen, glistening rash along with scaling around the edges.
Burning, stinging, or itching is also common.
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Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis is a form of the autoimmune diseasepsoriasisthat specifically targets skin folds.
Psoriasis typically appears as raised areas of inflamed skin covered with silvery-white, scaly skin.
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The rash consists of raised, flat, purplish bumps that may be itchy or irritating.
Genital lichen planus may affect the head of the penis and scrotum, or the vulva and vagina.
The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown.
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Like lichen planus, it is not contagious, and the exact cause is unknown.
In addition to itching, there may be bruising, cracking, tearing, and peeling.
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The itch is made worse by warmth.
A physical exam, complete medical history, and tests can be used to pinpoint the condition.
Tests can include:
Treatment
Treatment for genital rashes depends on the cause.
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For instance, yeast infections often are treated with over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments.
OTC creams such as hydrocortisone also can help to relieve itching, or a prescription ointment may be needed.
Researchers continue to study treatment options and prevention.
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you might protect yourself from infections in the genital area with the following.
Use a condom during sexual intercourse
Wear breathable underwear (e.g.
Your provider may prescribe a medication like Diflucan (fluconazole) that can stop yeast infections from coming back.
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More commonly, genital rashes are resulting from fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.
Genital rashes may be itchy, red, and highly uncomfortable.
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