What causes red and itchy scrotum?

Red and itchy scrotum may be caused by eczema, tinea cruris, contact dermatitis, scrotal neurodermatitis or scrotal scabies.

1. Eczema

Eczema is a common allergic skin disease that may be related to genetics, environmental stimulation, or immune abnormalities. Scrotal eczema manifests as local erythema, papules and severe itching, and may ooze after scratching. For treatment, topical drugs such as hydrocortisone cream, tacrolimus ointment, or compound dexamethasone acetate cream can be used as directed by the doctor, and hot water scalding and scratching can be avoided.

2. Tinea cruris

Tinea cruris is caused by a dermatophyte infection that commonly occurs in the groin and perineum and can spread to the scrotum. Typical manifestations are annular erythema with scaling, raised edges, and obvious itching. Treatment requires the use of antifungal drugs such as bifonazole cream, miconazole nitrate cream or terbinafine cream, and keeping the area dry and clean.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is often caused by contact with allergens or irritants, such as inferior underwear material, detergent residue, etc. It manifests as well-defined erythema and edema at the contact site, and in severe cases, blisters may appear. Treatment needs to remove the triggers and use calamine lotion, hydrocortisone butyrate cream or oral loratadine tablets as directed by your doctor.

4. Scrotal neurodermatitis

Scrotal neurodermatitis is related to mental stress and repeated local friction, and manifests as skin thickening, lichenification and paroxysmal itching. For treatment, powerful hormone ointments such as compound flumetasone ointment and halomethasone cream can be used, together with oral cetirizine hydrochloride tablets to relieve symptoms.

5. Scrotal scabies

Scabies is caused by the parasitic scabies mite and is characterized by severe itching and scattered papules that worsen at night, and gray-white tunnels may be observed. Treatment requires the use of sulfur ointment or crotamiton cream all over the body, and personal clothing needs to be boiled and disinfected.

You should choose pure cotton breathable underwear for daily use, avoid prolonged sitting and local stuffiness, and avoid eating spicy and irritating foods. If the symptoms persist or there is erosion or exudation, it is recommended to go to a dermatology department in time. If necessary, fungal microscopy or skin biopsy can be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Be careful not to use hormone ointments on your own for a long time to avoid adverse reactions such as skin atrophy.