Why does the testicles itch and shed?

Testicular itching and peeling may be related to factors such as local eczema, fungal infection, contact dermatitis, scrotal ringworm, or vitamin deficiency. It can be relieved by keeping it clean and dry, applying topical drugs, and adjusting diet.

1. Local eczema

Scrotal eczema may be caused by sweat stimulation or allergen exposure. It manifests as erythema, papules and severe itching. Scrotal eczema may appear after repeated scratching. For treatment, you need to avoid scratching. You can use hydrocortisone butyrate cream or mometasone furoate cream as directed by your doctor. In severe cases, take oral loratadine tablets. Choose pure cotton breathable underwear every day and avoid hot water washing.

2. Fungal infection

Candida or tinea cruris infection is common in humid environments. The skin lesions spread in a ring with scaly edges, and the itching worsens at night. Diagnosis requires skin scraping and microscopic examination. Bifonazole cream or miconazole nitrate cream can be applied externally. For stubborn infections, oral itraconazole capsules are required. Keep the perineum dry and change clothes promptly after exercise.

3. Contact dermatitis

Detergent residue or poor-quality underwear materials may cause allergic reactions, resulting in clear-cut redness, swelling, and scaling. Treatment requires stopping the use of allergenic products, applying local cold compress to relieve the burning sensation, and applying calamine lotion or compound dexamethasone acetate cream as directed by the doctor. It is recommended to wash newly purchased clothes thoroughly before wearing them.

4. Tinea scrotum

Dermatophyte infection can be transmitted through shared towels and manifests as round erythema with peripheral scaling and significant itching. It needs to be differentiated from eczema. After diagnosis, use terbinafine gel or ciclopirox cream. When combined with bacterial infection, use mupirocin ointment. Family members need to simultaneously check for tinea manuum, pedis and other diseases.

5. Vitamin deficiency

Long-term deficiency of vitamin B2 or zinc may lead to damage to the skin barrier, resulting in dryness and scaling with burning sensation. It is recommended to increase the intake of lean meat, eggs, mushrooms, etc., and supplement vitamin B complex tablets or zinc gluconate oral solution if necessary. Avoid over-cleansing that damages the skin's oil layer.

You should choose loose and breathable cotton underwear every day to avoid local stuffiness caused by sitting for a long time. Use warm water rather than alkaline soap when washing, and dry the folds completely after bathing. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks or exudate or suppuration occurs, you need to see a dermatologist promptly to rule out special skin diseases such as psoriasis. Pay attention to supplementing the diet with high-quality protein and fresh vegetables and fruits, and limit the intake of spicy foods.