What Is Scrotal Eczema? (2024)

Scrotal eczema is a very common condition characterized by an itchy, red, scaly rash on the scrotum. One of the main triggers of scrotal eczema is psychological stress. This causes the initial itching sensation on the scrotum. Other risk factors include exposure to skin irritants or allergens, nutritional deficiencies, and more. The treatment of scrotal eczema varies depending on the severity and cause.

According to the National Eczema Association, it's estimated that around 1 in 10 persons will develop eczema during their lifetime. Although eczema is a known condition, scrotal eczema is a common condition that is typically overlooked by physicians and dermatologists. Research shows it is easily mistaken for a fungal infection and considered to be a general case of eczema.

This article covers the different types of scrotal eczema and their associated symptoms, as well as the potential causes and treatments for this condition.

What Are the Symptoms of Scrotal Eczema?

Overall, the symptoms of eczema include the following:

• Dry skin
• Itchy skin
• Red rashes
• Crusting skin
• Swelling
• Bumps on the skin
• Scaly, leathery patches of skin

On skin of color, eczema can appear purple, ashen grey, or dark brown.

The symptoms of scrotal eczema include:

• Severe itching
• Scaling
• A thick and leathery texture of the scrotal skin (due to repeated scratching)

This rash can also spread to the penis, buttocks, and around the anus. Risk factors for scrotal eczema include contact dermatitis and psychological stress.

Similar conditions

Other skin conditions that can cause itching and/or dry skin around the groin include:

• Fungal infection (jock itch)
• Yeast infection
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

What Are the Causes of Scrotal Eczema?

One of the main factors of scrotal eczema ispsychologicalstress and anxiety. The mechanism is not fully understood, but it's thought to result from a mind-body reaction that makes the nerves in the skin overreact. This causes the initial itching sensation on the scrotum. The cycle of itching and scratching can result in the skin having a thick and leathery texture.

Other causes include a deficiency in vitamins and minerals, such as riboflavin and zinc.

Another cause includes a reaction to dye on clothing or other materials such as:

• Grease
• Diesel
• Rubber from condoms
• Nonoxynol spermicide

In addition, other risk factors include:

• The environment (such as extreme heat and humidity)
• The immune system
• Topical antibiotics
• Other medical and skin conditions
• Family history
• Allergies
• Genetics

Types of Scrotal Eczema

Scrotal eczema is classified into four categories:

• Type 1—Mild, acute, and dry: This is characterized by a burning and itching sensation in a specific area. At this stage of scrotal eczema, the condition will affect individuals for a few days to weeks, and it will go away on its own.
• Type 2—Severe, chronic, and dry: In this stage, the thighs and the undersurface of the penis may also be affected. The scrotum is hypopigmented (a condition in which the skin is lighter in color than normal) and scaly.
• Type 3—Chronic and wet: In this stage, the whole scrotum and inner sides of the thighs are affected. Tiny blood vessels that cause threadlike patterns on the skin are known to be seen in the affected area. Another symptom is that the scrotum and inner side of the thighs are macerated (loss of skin), and oozing can occur.
• Type 4—Swollen with ulcers: In this stage, the scrotal skin is swollen. There is fluid and pus discharge along with a foul smell. This stage produces extreme pain from ulceration. If the case is extreme, gangrene can set in and spread from the area of the scrotum to the legs and the lower abdominal wall.

How Is Scrotal Eczema Diagnosed?

A healthcare professional can determine the proper diagnosis for scrotal eczema. A primary care provider may refer you to a dermatologist, who can help diagnose the condition.

To make a proper diagnosis, a skin culture may be taken and sent to a lab. Scrotal eczema is known to be misdiagnosed as other conditions such as fungal infections.

How Is Scrotal Eczema Treated?

The treatment of scrotal eczema varies depending on the severity. It primarily focuses on symptom relief and removal of the trigger.

A healthcare provider can determine the proper treatment.

Medications and treatments include:

• Steroid creams (prescription or over-the-counter)
• Moisturizers
• Oral antihistamines
• Steroid injections
• Absorbent powders
• Radiation therapy

If stress or anxiety are a known trigger, your healthcare provider may recommend:

• An anti-anxiety medication
• Psychotherapy

How Is Scrotal Eczema Prevented?

Since stress is the primary cause, finding ways to consistently reduce stress is helpful.

Ways to reduce stress include:

• Seeking professional help
• Exercising
• Getting enough sleep
• Meditating

Other ways to manage scrotal eczema include:

• Wearing loose clothing
• Establishing a skincare routine with your healthcare provider's recommendations
• Avoiding potentially irritating products
• Keeping the groin area clean
• Taking lukewarm baths or showers
• Not scratching the skin when it becomes itchy

Summary

Scrotal eczema is a common skin condition that affects the groin. It typically presents as an itchy, red, scaly rash. Common triggers include psychological stress and skin irritants. Although there is no cure for scrotal eczema, there are many treatment options that can help.

If you have any symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider so you can get the proper treatment to effectively manage scrotal eczema.