HERPES

Is is Jock Itch or Herpes?

Dear Dr. Tom:

I have had a rash, which was like Jock Itch….I went to the doctor and she said it was probably a yeast infection of some sort. I used a Jock Itch cure, and it went away….however, I am afraid it might be something worse. The rash was red, itched, and lasted about two weeks. It was located on my legs and around my genital area. I also was tested for HIV at our community health center, I don’t know if they do any other tests on the blood…..Is there anyway I can be sure what this was?

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Dr. Tom’s Response:

Dear Anonymous with a Rash Like Jock Itch:

The way to be sure what your itching and rash were would be to seek treatment from a dermatologist who specializes in skin diseases and related disorders. Skin scrapings can be examined under a microscope, and laboratory cultures can be performed to identify more specifically what your affliction is.

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