Causes and Treatments for Itching at the Root of Male Pubic Hair

There are many reasons for itching at the root of male pubic hair, and the specific causes depend on the symptoms presented at the affected area. If the itching at the root of the pubic hair is accompanied by papules, it is generally related to eczema or tinea cruris. It is essential to avoid touching the skin with hands and maintain good hygiene of the pubic hair. The skin can be cleaned with potassium permanganate solution. If there are no papules, the possibility of pubic lice should be considered. After shaving off the pubic hair, observe whether the itching persists.

1. Eczema

Eczema is a common possibility, often presenting with a widespread distribution and various forms of rash, including erythema, papules, vesicles, erosion, exudation, and crusting. The itching can be intense and scratching can lead to infection. The course of the disease is approximately 2-3 weeks, but it can easily turn chronic and recur frequently.

2. Tinea Cruris

The symptoms of tinea cruris begin with a few papules that gradually increase in number and expand in a circular pattern. The edges of the lesions are raised, and the itching can be intolerable. Scratching can worsen the condition, leading to gradual enlargement of the circular lesions, darkening of the local skin color, thickening of the skin, and scaling and crusting.

3. Pubic Lice Infestation

Pubic lice infestation is a contagious disease. Patients or their spouses may have a history of unhygienic sexual contact or have contracted the disease while staying in a hotel. The diagnosis can be made based on a history of sexual contact or other infections, itching in the pubic hair area, and skin lesions mainly consisting of scratches, blood crusts, secondary impetigo, folliculitis, or grayish-blue or light-blue patches. The diagnosis can be confirmed by finding pubic lice or their eggs in the pubic hair area or on the skin of the pubic bone.

4. Urethritis

Urethritis can be caused by urinary tract infections. Initial diagnosis may indicate urethritis. During treatment, it is recommended to maintain a healthy diet, avoid spicy and stimulating foods to prevent worsening of the infection due to irritation, and drink plenty of water to avoid holding urine. Holding urine for extended periods can lead to repeated infections of the urethra. It is also advisable to minimize smoking and drinking to avoid compromising treatment outcomes. Medications such as levofloxacin or nitrofurantoin can be prescribed for oral administration to treat the condition.