What are the common symptoms of ringworm. How is ringworm transmitted between humans and animals. Can ringworm affect different parts of the body. What are effective treatments for ringworm infections. How can you prevent the spread of ringworm.

Understanding Ringworm: A Common Fungal Skin Infection

Ringworm, despite its name, is not caused by a worm but by a fungus. This common skin infection, medically known as tinea, can affect people of all ages, though it’s particularly prevalent among children. The infection derives its name from the characteristic ring-shaped rash it often produces on the skin.

Ringworm is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These mold-like organisms thrive in warm, moist environments and feed on the dead tissues of hair, nails, and outer skin layers. While the infection can occur anywhere on the body, it’s most commonly found on the scalp, feet, groin area, and body.

Types of Ringworm Infections

• Tinea corporis: Ringworm of the body
• Tinea capitis: Ringworm of the scalp
• Tinea pedis: Athlete’s foot
• Tinea cruris: Jock itch
• Tinea barbae: Ringworm of the beard

Causes and Transmission of Ringworm

How does ringworm spread? The fungus responsible for ringworm can be transmitted through various means:

1. Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal
2. Contact with contaminated items such as combs, unwashed clothing, or shower surfaces
3. Walking barefoot in areas where the fungus thrives, like locker rooms or public showers
4. Close contact with pets, particularly cats, which are common carriers

Is ringworm contagious? Indeed, it is highly contagious. The fungus can spread easily from person to person, from animals to humans, and even from contaminated objects to people. This ease of transmission is one reason why ringworm outbreaks can occur in schools, sports teams, and households.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Ringworm

The symptoms of ringworm can vary depending on the location of the infection, but some common signs include:

• A red, scaly, circular rash with raised edges
• Itching and burning sensations in the affected area
• Hair loss in infected areas of the scalp or beard
• Cracking, peeling, or scaling skin between the toes (in cases of athlete’s foot)
• A rash in the groin area that may extend to the inner thighs (in cases of jock itch)

Do all ringworm infections present as a ring-shaped rash? Not necessarily. While the classic presentation is a ring-shaped lesion with a clearing center, ringworm can sometimes appear as red, scaly patches without the characteristic ring shape.

Diagnosing Ringworm: What to Expect

When should you see a healthcare provider for a suspected ringworm infection? If you notice persistent, ring-shaped rashes or scaly patches on your skin that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to consult a medical professional.

How is ringworm diagnosed? Doctors typically diagnose ringworm through a combination of:

• Visual examination of the affected area
• Questions about your symptoms and potential exposures
• In some cases, a skin scraping or culture to confirm the presence of fungi

Can ringworm be mistaken for other skin conditions? Yes, ringworm can sometimes be confused with other circular rashes like nummular eczema or pityriasis rosea. This is why professional diagnosis is important for proper treatment.

Effective Treatments for Ringworm

What are the available treatment options for ringworm? The treatment approach depends on the severity and location of the infection:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

• Antifungal creams, lotions, or powders containing miconazole, clotrimazole, or terbinafine
• These are usually effective for mild cases of ringworm on the body or feet

Prescription Medications

• Oral antifungal medications like fluconazole or terbinafine for more severe or persistent infections
• Prescription-strength topical antifungals for resistant cases

How long does it take for ringworm to clear up with treatment? With proper treatment, most ringworm infections clear up within 2-4 weeks. However, it’s crucial to continue treatment for the full prescribed duration to prevent recurrence.

Preventing the Spread of Ringworm

Are there effective ways to prevent ringworm infections? Absolutely. Here are some key prevention strategies:

• Practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing
• Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms or pool decks
• Don’t share personal items like combs, towels, or clothing
• Regularly check pets for signs of skin problems and seek veterinary care if needed
• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics during physical activities

Can you prevent ringworm if you’ve been exposed? If you suspect you’ve been exposed to ringworm, washing the area thoroughly with soap and water can help reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, applying an over-the-counter antifungal cream as a preventive measure may be beneficial.

Ringworm in Special Populations

Does ringworm affect certain groups differently? While ringworm can affect anyone, some populations may be at higher risk or require special considerations:

Children

Children are particularly susceptible to ringworm infections, especially tinea capitis (scalp ringworm). This is partly due to their close contact with other children and pets, as well as their developing immune systems.

Athletes

Athletes, particularly those involved in contact sports, are at increased risk of ringworm due to skin-to-skin contact and shared equipment or facilities. Wrestler’s herpes, despite its name, is actually a form of ringworm common among wrestlers.

Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience more severe or persistent ringworm infections that require aggressive treatment.

Complications and Long-Term Effects of Ringworm

Are there potential complications associated with ringworm infections? While ringworm is generally a mild condition, in some cases, it can lead to complications:

• Secondary bacterial infections: If the affected skin becomes cracked or damaged, bacteria can enter and cause a secondary infection.
• Scarring: In rare cases, particularly with severe or untreated infections, ringworm can cause scarring or permanent hair loss.
• Widespread infection: In people with weakened immune systems, ringworm can spread more extensively and be more difficult to treat.

Can ringworm recur after treatment? Yes, ringworm can recur, especially if the initial treatment was not completed as prescribed or if you’re repeatedly exposed to the fungus. This underscores the importance of following through with the full course of treatment and taking preventive measures.

Myths and Misconceptions About Ringworm

Are there common misconceptions about ringworm that need clarification? Indeed, several myths persist about this common skin infection:

Myth 1: Ringworm is caused by a worm

As mentioned earlier, ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm. The name comes from the ring-like appearance of the rash.

Myth 2: Ringworm only affects dirty people

While good hygiene can help prevent ringworm, the infection can affect anyone, regardless of cleanliness. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, which can occur even with regular bathing.

Myth 3: You can’t get ringworm from animals

This is false. Many animals, especially cats, can carry the ringworm fungus and transmit it to humans through direct contact.

Myth 4: Once you’ve had ringworm, you’re immune to future infections

Unfortunately, having ringworm once doesn’t confer immunity. You can get ringworm multiple times if exposed to the fungus.

By understanding these myths and the true nature of ringworm, individuals can better protect themselves and seek appropriate treatment when needed.

Living with Ringworm: Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments

How can individuals manage the discomfort and inconvenience of a ringworm infection? Here are some practical tips:

• Keep the affected area clean and dry
• Avoid scratching, which can spread the infection and lead to secondary bacterial infections
• Use cool compresses to relieve itching
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to reduce moisture and heat in affected areas
• Change socks and undergarments daily, or more frequently if they become damp with sweat
• Use separate towels and washcloths for the infected area to prevent spread to other body parts

Should you avoid certain activities while treating ringworm? It’s generally advisable to avoid activities that involve close skin-to-skin contact or shared equipment until the infection clears. This might include contact sports or swimming in public pools.

The Future of Ringworm Treatment and Prevention

What advancements are being made in the field of ringworm treatment and prevention? While current treatments are generally effective, researchers continue to explore new avenues:

New Antifungal Agents

Scientists are developing new antifungal compounds that may be more effective or have fewer side effects than current medications.

Improved Diagnostic Tools

Research is ongoing to develop faster, more accurate diagnostic tests for fungal infections, which could lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes.

Preventive Strategies

Studies are examining the potential of antifungal-infused fabrics or surfaces to reduce the spread of ringworm in high-risk environments like gyms or locker rooms.

As our understanding of fungal infections grows, we can expect to see continued improvements in how we prevent, diagnose, and treat ringworm and other similar conditions.

In conclusion, while ringworm can be an uncomfortable and inconvenient infection, it is generally treatable and manageable with proper care and medication. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves and others from this common fungal infection. As always, if you suspect you have ringworm or any persistent skin condition, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ringworm Information | Mount Sinai

Dermatophytid; Dermatophyte fungal infection – tinea; Tinea

Ringworm is a skin infection due to a fungus. Often, there are several patches of ringworm on the skin at once. The medical name for ringworm is tinea.

This picture shows a skin inflammation of the fingers with multiple blisters (vesicles) caused by an allergic reaction to a fungal infection (tinea corporis). (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

This child’s leg shows a classical-appearing ringworm lesion with central clearing and a slightly raised red border.

In the scalp, fungal infections often form circular, scaly, inflamed patches. Frequently, there can be temporary hair loss (hair returns when infection clears but if treatment is delayed and scarring results, permanent hair loss can be seen). This is a classical example of ringworm (tinea capitis) in a young child.

This is a picture of ringworm (tinea) on the hand and leg. Tinea is a fungal infection of the skin. Ringworm is not seen as frequently in adults as in children, but when conditions are conducive to growth, the fungus can flourish.

This is a picture of ringworm, tinea manum, on the finger. This fungal infection is inflamed and scaly.

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. It usually produces a ring-shaped lesion which appears to clear in the center. The edges of the lesion may be slightly raised and often itch. Central clearing can be seen in some of the infected areas on the leg of this person.

Ringworm is a common skin disorder, especially among children, but may occur in people of all ages. It is caused by mold-like fungi (dermatophytes).

Causes

Ringworm is common, especially among children. But, it can affect people of all ages. It is caused by a fungus, not a worm like the name suggests.

Many bacteria, fungi, and yeast live on your body. Some of these are useful, while others can cause infections. Ringworm occurs when a type of fungus grows and multiplies on your skin.

Ringworm can spread from one person to another. You can catch ringworm if you touch someone who has the infection, or if you come in contact with items contaminated by the fungus, such as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces. You can also catch ringworm from pets. Cats are common carriers.

The fungus that causes ringworm thrives in warm, moist areas. Ringworm is more likely when you are often wet (such as from sweating) and from minor injuries to your skin, scalp, or nails.

Ringworm can affect the skin on your:

• Beard, tinea barbae
• Body, tinea corporis
• Feet, tinea pedis (also called athlete’s foot)
• Groin area, tinea cruris (also called jock itch)
• Scalp, tinea capitis

Elewski BE, Hughey LC, Hunt KM, Hay RJ. Fungal diseases. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 77.

Hay RJ. Dermatophytosis (ringworm) and other superficial mycoses. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 266.

Last reviewed on: 4/14/2021

Reviewed by: Elika Hoss, MD, Senior Associate Consultant, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A. D.A.M. Editorial team.

Ringworm of the body: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000877.htm

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Ringworm is a skin infection that is caused by fungi. It is also called tinea.

Related skin fungus infections may appear:

• On the scalp
• In a man’s beard
• In the groin (jock itch)
• Between the toes (athlete’s foot)

Fungi are germs that can live on the dead tissue of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers. Ringworm of the body is caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes.

Ringworm of the body is common in children, but can occur in people of all ages.

Fungi thrive in warm, moist areas. A ringworm infection is more likely if you:

• Have wet skin for a long time (such as from sweating)
• Have minor skin and nail injuries
• Do not bathe or wash your hair often
• Have close contact with other people (such as in sports like wrestling)

Ringworm can spread quickly. You can catch it if you come into direct contact with an area of ringworm on someone’s body. You can also get it by touching items that have the fungi on them, such as:

• Clothing
• Combs
• Pool surfaces
• Shower floors and walls

Pets can also spread ringworm. Cats are common carriers.

The rash begins as a small area of red, raised spots and pimples. The rash slowly becomes ring-shaped, with a red, raised border and a clear center. The border may look scaly.

The rash may occur on the arms, legs, face, or other exposed body areas.

The area may be itchy.

Your health care provider can often diagnose ringworm by looking at your skin.

You may also need the following tests:

• Examination of a skin scraping from the rash under a microscope using a special test
• Skin culture for fungus
• Skin biopsy

Keep your skin clean and dry.

Use creams that treat fungal infections.

• Creams that contain miconazole, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, terbinafine, or oxiconazole, or other antifungal medicines, are often useful in controlling ringworm.
• You can buy some of these creams over-the-counter, or your provider may give you a prescription.

To use this medicine:

• Wash and dry the area first.
• Apply the cream, beginning just outside the area of the rash and moving toward the center. Be sure to wash and dry your hands afterward.
• Use the cream twice a day for 7 to 10 days.
• Do not use a bandage over ringworm.

Your provider may prescribe medicine to take by mouth if your infection is very bad.

A child with ringworm can return to school once treatment has started.

To prevent the infection from spreading:

• Wash clothing, towels, and bedding in hot, soapy water and then dry them using the hottest heat recommended on the care label.
• Use a new towel and washcloth every time you wash.
• Clean sinks, bathtubs, and bathroom floors well after each use.
• Wear clean clothes every day and do not share clothes.
• If you play contact sports, shower right away afterward.

Infected pets should also be treated. This is because ringworm can spread from animals to humans by contact.

Ringworm often goes away within 4 weeks when using antifungal creams. The infection may spread to the feet, scalp, groin, or nails. 

Two complications of ringworm are:

• Skin infection from scratching too much
• Other skin disorders that require further treatment

Contact your provider if ringworm does not get better with self-care.

Tinea corporis; Fungal infection – body; Tinea circinata; Ringworm – body

• Dermatitis – reaction to tinea
• Ringworm – tinea corporis on an infant’s leg
• Tinea versicolor – close-up
• Tinea versicolor – shoulders
• Ringworm – tinea on the hand and leg
• Tinea versicolor – close-up
• Tinea versicolor on the back
• Ringworm – tinea manuum on the finger
• Ringworm – tinea corporis on the leg
• Granuloma – fungal (Majocchi’s)
• Granuloma – fungal (Majocchi’s)
• Tinea corporis – ear

Dinulos JGH. Superficial fungal infections. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 13.

Hay RJ. Dermatophytosis (ringworm) and other superficial mycoses. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 266.

Patterson JW. Mycoses and algal infections. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon’s Skin Pathology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Limited; 2021:chap 26.

Updated by: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Ringworm in rabbits – trichophytosis and microsporia.

There are two types of ringworm in rabbits – microsporia and trichophytosis. The article will focus on the signs, methods of prevention and treatment of lichen in rabbits.

Watch a video consultation on how to treat and prevent ringworm here…

There are two types of ringworm in rabbits – microsporia and trichophytosis. The main carriers of microsporia are cats, and trichophytosis are house and field mice, rats and other rodents. All farm animals, animals and humans are predisposed to this disease. Young animals are more susceptible to disease than adult animals. Rabbit lichen disease is a ubiquitous disease. The main route of infection is sick animals and contact with contaminated objects (litter, cages, feed). Ringworm in rabbits is observed at all times of the year, but most often with a large accumulation of young animals in the household. The incubation period of the disease is 8-30 days.

Signs of lichen in rabbits:

• Trichophytosis is characterized by well-defined clinical symptoms – peeling and broken hair appear on the affected areas of the skin (neck, limbs, head), later bald spots form, on which small bubbles are visible, which quickly dry out and become covered with white-grayish crusts. The affected areas of the skin increase and expand to the periphery over time.
• Microsporia proceeds in a latent form, the affected foci appear on the auricles in the form of rounded hairless pink spots with slight peeling. Rabbits with ringworm can be detected using fluorescent lamps L-80, PRK-2, PRK-4 with a Wood filter. Under their action in the dark, you can see the glow of the hair in an emerald green color.

Prevention and treatment.

In disadvantaged farms, a clinical examination of animals is carried out in order to prevent ringworm in rabbits. Suspicious and sick animals are killed. Their meat is used without restrictions, and the skins should be disinfected. For the prevention of lichen in rabbits, the rest of the animals are given the antifungal antibiotic griseofulfin in the mixture with food: for microsporia – 20 mg per 1 kg of live weight, for trichophytosis – 10 mg per 1 kg of body weight for 30 days (two courses of 15 days with a break of 5 -7 days). In order to treat ringworm in rabbits, griseofulfin is given to all animals according to the same scheme, but at a dose of 20 g per 1 kg of live weight. In disadvantaged farms, it is recommended to immunize animals against trichophytosis, starting from the age of 45 days, with the Mentavak vaccine, 1 ml each. The vaccine is administered intramuscularly twice with an interval of 7-10 days. No vaccine has been developed against microsporia.

To treat ringworm in rabbits, a solution of green soap or lye can be used to soften the scabs and hair on the affected areas of the skin, after which they are removed. Then these places are treated with a 5% solution of copper sulphate on lysol, 10% iodine tincture, 1-2% trichocetin ointment on petroleum jelly, 10% salicylic acid solution, 1% Yuglon oil emulsion, formalin- kerasin emulsion (2:10), lysol, creolin. After 1-2 days, the treatment of lichen in rabbits is repeated. Removed hair and scabs must be destroyed.

ringworm in rabbits
ringworm in rabbits
lichen in a rabbit photo
lichen disease of rabbits
lichen in decorative rabbits

The cat is going bald: causes, treatment of lichen and dermatitis

Whiskers, paws and tail are, of course, weighty documents, but the coat of cats is the first indicator of health.

If a cat goes bald – the reasons may lie in many diseases. This fact cannot be ignored. Wool begins to fall out with a weakened immune system, a lack of necessary vitamins and minerals, malnutrition and the dominance of parasites.
“If my Murka started to go bald, she needs to be treated urgently!”. You can’t argue with this, but treatment should be prescribed only after the causes of hair loss are established. There are several diseases that lead to such consequences. Let’s consider the main ones.

Trichophytosis or ringworm

Ringworm can affect both cats and humans. A rather unpleasant disease that causes a lot of trouble. Luckily, it’s very easy to find out. Ringworm is a contagious disease that is transmitted from one animal to another, through open areas of the skin.

Lichen in cats, signs, treatment

The fungus is characterized by round formations with clearly defined edges. This disease can be picked up by small kittens, animals with weak immunity, street and yard cats.

The incubation period for lichen can range from a week to one month.

Bald spots on the body of the animal grow, bare spots are covered with scales and crusts. Most often, lichen occurs on the neck, head, on the skin of the limbs. If you do not start treatment in time, the spots can merge together, forming a vast affected area.

• The cat is going bald
• The cat is going bald
• The cat is going bald

Atypical dermatitis as a cause of hair loss in cats

Cats aged six months to two are most susceptible to this disease years. There are cats that get sick with it at a more mature age, but this happens much less often. Most often, this disease is characterized by symmetrical alopecia, caused by miliary dermatitis. The cat often licks itself, itches, and as a result, ulcers and crusts can form. Since this is a manifestation of an allergy, dermatitis can be seasonal and non-seasonal.
The diagnosis of baldness in a cat is based on a scraping, which can be done by a qualified doctor in a veterinary clinic. If no diseases are found, review the diet of your pet, feed it with vitamins and treat it for parasites. Often cats begin to lose hair with age.

Microsporia, ringworm in cats

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