In tinea cruris, which area is typically affected?

• A. Scalp
• B. Groin
• C. Hands
• D. Feet

Answer: (B)

Tinea cruris is a fungal infection that typically involves warm, moist skin folds, most often in the groin and upper inner thighs. The groin area is especially prone because heat, friction, and sweating create an ideal environment for dermatophytes to grow. Athletes are particularly at risk due to prolonged sweating and clothing that traps moisture. Clinically, you’d expect itchy, red, scaly patches with a raised border in that region, sometimes with a lighter center. This distribution helps distinguish it from other dermatophyte infections: the scalp is affected by tinea capitis, the feet by tinea pedis, and the hands by tinea manuum, while tinea cruris specifically targets the groin.