Causes of Small Red Bumps on the Groin

Small red bumps on the groin can be caused by one of several common skin-related conditions. According to Mayoclinic.com, small red bumps found on the groin may be caused by folliculitis, genital herpes or scabies. If the red bumps do not go away or appear to get worse, contact a health-care provider.

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a skin condition that results when the hair follicle becomes inflamed or infected with bacteria such as staphylococcus. Folliculitis can occur anywhere on the skin, including the groin, face and chest areas. According to Mayoclinic.com, symptoms of folliculitis include small, red itchy bumps where the hair follicles are infected. Another common symptom includes pus-filled blisters that may crust over when opened. Risk factors that increase the chances of developing folliculitis include trauma to the skin after surgery, the presence of any disease or condition that compromises the immune system and exposure to hot water or a heated pool or jacuzzi. Mild cases of folliculitis are not likely to cause any complications. Treatment may include antibiotics or antifungal medications.

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that can affect the genitals and groin area. Genital herpes can affect both men and women. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, genital herpes is caused by two viruses--herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes simplex virus type 2. The first outbreak of genital herpes occurs within 2 weeks of becoming infected and is typically the most severe. Symptoms of herpes include small, red, painful blisters that are filled with pus. Other symptoms include fever, decreased appetite and muscle aches in the back, thighs, buttocks or knees. There is no cure for genital herpes so treatment is focused on shortening the length of time an outbreak lasts, reducing the frequency of occurrences and lessening the pain and severity of the outbreak. It is possible to transmit genital herpes even when there are no visible signs or symptoms of an outbreak.

Scabies

Scabies is a condition in which mites burrow underneath the skin, causing small red bumps. According to Medline Plus, scabies is common all around the world and it can affect people of all races. Scabies can spread quickly in close living conditions where skin-to-skin contact between people often occurs. Common areas infected are the male genital region, around the breasts and around the waist. Symptoms include pimple-like irritations and rashes, intense itching and sores caused by frequent scratching. Treatment for scabies is simple and involves the application of topical medications such as Permethrin, Lindane and Crotamiton. Itching may last up to several weeks after the scabies infestation has been cured.