Why Is My Scrotum Itchy?

Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Supervised by Kenji Taylor, MD

Itchy scrotum can be caused by skin irritation, infections, allergies, or inflammation. Understanding the cause is important for getting the right care. Sometimes, minor issues can be treated at home, but if the problem lasts, it's important to talk with a doctor.

Explanation

Many things can make the scrotum itch. One common reason is a mild skin irritation from sweat, clothing, or tight rubbing, which can hurt the skin. Fungal infections like jock itch, which is caused by fungus that thrives in warm and moist conditions, can also cause itching. Allergies or contact dermatitis may happen if the skin touches something that irritates it. Other reasons can include skin conditions like eczema or even bug bites. It is important to keep the area clean and dry. If the itching continues or gets worse, you should talk to a healthcare provider to find out the exact cause and the best treatment for your situation.

(References)

Umaoka A, Takeuchi H, Mizutani K, Seo N, Matsushima Y, Habe K, Hagimori K, Yamaguchi Y, Ikeda T, Yamanaka K. Skin Inflammation and Testicular Function: Dermatitis Causes Male Infertility via Skin-Derived Cytokines. Biomedicines. 2020 Aug 20;8(9):293. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines8090293. PMID: 32825298; PMCID: PMC7555019.
Pomares C, Marty P, Delaunay P. Isolated itching of the genitals. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2014 Apr;90(4):589-590. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0337. PMID: 24696404; PMCID: PMC3973496.
Swamiappan M. Anogenital Pruritus - An Overview. J Clin Diagn Res. 2016 Apr;10(4):WE01-3. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2016/18440.7703. Epub 2016 Apr 1. PMID: 27190932; PMCID: PMC4866230.

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Itchy scrotum

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