What causes peeling of the skin on the inner thigh adjacent to the groin?

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Last updated: March 11, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Skin Peeling on Inner Thigh

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Intertrigo: A common condition characterized by skin irritation and peeling in the folds of the skin, often due to friction, moisture, and fungal or bacterial infections. The location adjacent to the groin and the description of peeling skin leaving a bright semi-circle are consistent with intertrigo.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Eczema (Dyshidrotic or Atopic): Eczema can cause skin peeling, redness, and irritation, and can occur in the groin area. The semi-circular pattern could be due to the shape of the skin fold.
    • Contact Dermatitis: Irritation from clothing, soaps, or other substances can cause contact dermatitis, leading to skin peeling and redness in the affected area.
    • Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): A fungal infection that can cause skin peeling, redness, and itching in the groin area, often in a circular or semi-circular pattern.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Necrotizing Fasciitis: A rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that can cause skin necrosis and peeling, often with severe pain and systemic symptoms. Although unlikely, it is crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate.
    • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: A severe skin and mucous membrane disorder, often caused by medications or infections, which can lead to skin peeling and detachment.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Pemphigus: A group of rare autoimmune diseases that can cause blistering and peeling of the skin, potentially leading to the described semi-circular pattern.
    • Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS): A rare condition caused by staphylococcal toxins, which can lead to widespread skin peeling and detachment, often in infants and young children.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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