What are the different types of ringworm infections. How does ringworm spread. What does a ringworm rash look like. How is ringworm diagnosed and treated. Can animals transmit ringworm to humans. What are the risk factors for developing ringworm.

Understanding Ringworm: A Common Fungal Skin Infection

Ringworm, medically known as tinea, is a widespread fungal infection that affects various parts of the body. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These microscopic organisms thrive on the dead tissues of skin, hair, and nails, causing characteristic ring-shaped rashes and other symptoms.

Dermatophytes prefer warm, moist environments, making areas like skin folds particularly susceptible. Excessive sweating, minor skin injuries, and compromised immune systems can increase the risk of developing ringworm infections.

Why is it called ringworm?

The term “ringworm” originates from the circular, ring-like appearance of the rash it often produces. However, not all ringworm infections manifest as perfect circles, and the appearance can vary depending on the affected body part and the individual’s skin type.

Common Types of Ringworm and Their Characteristics

Ringworm can affect various parts of the body, each type with its own medical name and distinct features:

• Tinea corporis (body ringworm)
• Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)
• Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot)
• Tinea cruris (jock itch)
• Tinea barbae (beard ringworm)
• Tinea faciei (facial ringworm)
• Tinea manuum (hand ringworm)
• Tinea unguium (nail ringworm or onychomycosis)

Tinea Corporis: Ringworm of the Body

Tinea corporis affects the skin on the body, excluding the scalp, groin, feet, and nails. It typically presents as itchy, red, raised, and scaly patches with well-defined edges. The characteristic ring shape often appears redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center. In some cases, the affected skin may blister, ooze, or appear unusually dark or light.

Tinea Capitis: Scalp Ringworm

Commonly affecting children in late childhood or adolescence, tinea capitis can spread rapidly in school environments. It manifests as patchy, scaling bald spots on the scalp, distinguishing it from other scalp conditions like seborrhea or dandruff, which do not cause hair loss.

Tinea Pedis: Athlete’s Foot

Tinea pedis, or athlete’s foot, is an extremely prevalent form of ringworm. It often causes scaling and inflammation in the toe webs, particularly between the fourth and fifth toes. Symptoms may include itching, burning, redness, and stinging on the soles of the feet.

Tinea Cruris: Jock Itch

Jock itch typically affects adult men and adolescent boys, presenting as a reddish-brown rash in the groin area. It may extend from the groin folds onto one or both thighs. Factors contributing to jock itch include sweating, hot and humid weather, and friction from tight clothing.

Ringworm in Specific Body Areas

Tinea Barbae: Beard Ringworm

Affecting the bearded area of the face and neck, tinea barbae can cause swelling, marked crusting, and hair breakage. Historically known as “barber’s itch,” this condition was common when men visited barbers daily for shaves.

Tinea Faciei: Facial Ringworm

Ringworm on the face outside the beard area is called tinea faciei. Unlike other forms, it rarely appears ring-shaped on the face. Instead, it typically causes red, scaly patches with indistinct edges.

Tinea Manuum: Hand Ringworm

Tinea manuum affects the hands, particularly the palms and spaces between fingers. It often causes thickening (hyperkeratosis) of these areas, typically on only one hand. This form of ringworm frequently accompanies tinea pedis.

Tinea Unguium: Nail Ringworm

Also known as onychomycosis, tinea unguium is the most common fungal infection of the nails. It can make fingernails appear white, thick, opaque, and brittle. Toenails more often look yellow, thick, and brittle. The use of artificial nails can increase the risk of this infection.

Transmission and Risk Factors for Ringworm

Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread through various means:

1. Direct contact with an infected person
2. Contact with infected animals
3. Touching contaminated objects or surfaces
4. Contact with infected soil

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing ringworm:

• Excessive sweating
• Minor skin injuries
• Weakened immune system
• Living in warm, humid climates
• Close contact with infected individuals or animals
• Sharing personal items like towels or clothing
• Walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms or swimming pools

Can animals transmit ringworm to humans?

Yes, ringworm is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Cats are among the most common carriers, but dogs, cows, goats, pigs, and horses can also spread ringworm to people. Transmission can occur through direct contact with infected animals or by touching their bedding, grooming items, or living spaces.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Ringworm

Diagnosing ringworm often involves a visual examination of the affected area. In some cases, the location and appearance of the rash make the diagnosis straightforward. However, when the symptoms are less clear, doctors may perform additional tests:

• Skin scrapings examined under a microscope
• Wood’s lamp examination (for certain types of ringworm)
• Fungal culture

How is ringworm treated?

Treatment for ringworm typically involves antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection:

• Topical antifungal creams: For mild to moderate cases, over-the-counter or prescription creams containing clotrimazole, miconazole, ketoconazole, or terbinafine are often effective.
• Oral antifungal medications: In severe cases or infections affecting the scalp or nails, oral medications such as terbinafine, itraconazole, griseofulvin, or fluconazole may be prescribed.

In addition to medication, maintaining good hygiene and following proper wound care practices can help prevent the spread of ringworm and promote faster healing.

Prevention Strategies for Ringworm

While ringworm is a common infection, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading it:

• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms or swimming pools
• Don’t share personal items like clothing, towels, or hairbrushes
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing in hot and humid weather
• Regularly clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces and items
• Practice good pet hygiene and regularly check pets for signs of skin problems

Are there any natural remedies for ringworm?

While medical treatments are the most effective way to combat ringworm, some people find relief from natural remedies. However, it’s important to note that these alternatives may not be as effective as prescribed treatments and should be used with caution:

• Tea tree oil: Known for its antifungal properties
• Apple cider vinegar: May help create an inhospitable environment for fungi
• Garlic: Contains compounds with antifungal effects
• Aloe vera: May soothe irritated skin and have mild antifungal properties

Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any alternative treatments, especially if you have severe or persistent symptoms.

Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention

While ringworm is generally not a serious condition, complications can arise in certain situations:

• Secondary bacterial infections
• Widespread infection in people with weakened immune systems
• Scarring or permanent hair loss (in severe cases of scalp ringworm)
• Persistent nail infections that can lead to nail deformity or loss

It’s important to seek medical attention if:

• Your symptoms don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
• The infection appears to be spreading or worsening
• You develop signs of a secondary bacterial infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or drainage
• You have a weakened immune system or other underlying health conditions
• The infection affects a large area of your body or your scalp

Can ringworm recur after treatment?

Yes, ringworm can recur even after successful treatment. This may happen due to:

• Incomplete treatment or stopping treatment too soon
• Reinfection from an untreated source (e.g., infected pets or family members)
• Persistence of spores in personal items or environments

To minimize the risk of recurrence, it’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, practice good hygiene, and address potential sources of reinfection.

Debunking Myths and Misconceptions About Ringworm

Despite its prevalence, ringworm is often surrounded by misconceptions. Let’s address some common myths:

Is ringworm caused by worms?

No, ringworm is not caused by worms. It’s a fungal infection named for the ring-like appearance of the rash it often produces.

Can only dirty people get ringworm?

False. While good hygiene helps prevent ringworm, anyone can contract the infection regardless of their cleanliness. Factors like skin moisture, immune function, and exposure to infected sources play a more significant role.

Is ringworm only contagious when visible?

No, ringworm can be contagious before visible symptoms appear. This is why it’s important to practice good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items, even if you don’t see any signs of infection.

Can you get ringworm from swimming pools?

While it’s possible to contract ringworm from contaminated surfaces around swimming pools (like locker room floors), the chlorine in pool water typically kills the fungus. The risk is higher in the moist areas surrounding pools rather than in the water itself.

Understanding these facts about ringworm can help dispel common myths and promote more effective prevention and treatment strategies.

What a Ringworm Rash Looks Like

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev on February 22, 2022

Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection otherwise known as tinea. Ringworm most commonly affects the skin on the body (tinea corporis), the scalp (tinea capitis), the feet (tinea pedis, or athlete’s foot), or the groin (tinea cruris, or jock itch).

No. Ringworm is not caused by a worm. It’s a fungal infection that often forms a ring-shaped rash. It can have a red center (seen here) or normal skin tone inside the ring. Other rashes can look like ringworm, including spider bites, nummular eczema, and Lyme disease, a more serious infection that produces a bull’s-eye shaped rash. These require different treatments, so it’s important to consult a medical professional.

Certain fungi can help the body, but the dermatophyte types that cause ringworm irritate the skin instead. These fungi live off the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails. Dermatophytes thrive in warm, moist areas, such as the skin folds of the groin area or between the toes. You’re at greater risk of getting ringworm if you sweat excessively or have minor injuries to your skin, scalp, or nails.

There are several types of ringworm (tinea) that can affect different parts of the body. When fungus affects the skin of the body, it often produces itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply defined edges. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center, creating the appearance of a ring. Your skin may also appear unusually dark or light.

Ringworm of the scalp commonly affects children in late childhood or adolescence. This condition may spread in schools. Tinea capitis often appears as patchy, scaling bald spots on the scalp. (Other scalp conditions, such as seborrhea or dandruff, do not cause hair loss).

Tinea pedis is an extremely common skin disorder, also known as athlete’s foot.  This fungal infection may cause scaling and inflammation in the toe webs, especially the one between the fourth and fifth toes. Other symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and stinging on the soles of the feet.

Tinea of the groin (jock itch) tends to have a reddish-brown color and may extend from the folds of the groin down onto one or both thighs. Jock itch occurs mostly in adult men and adolescent boys. (Other conditions that can mimic tinea cruris include yeast infections, psoriasis, and intertrigo.) Jock itch may occur due to sweating, hot and humid weather, or friction from wearing tight clothes.

Ringworm of the bearded area of the face and neck, with swellings and marked crusting, sometimes causes the hair to break off. In the days when men went to the barber daily for a shave, tinea barbae was called barber’s itch.

Ringworm on the face outside of the beard area is called tinea faciei. On the face, ringworm is rarely ring-shaped. Characteristically, it causes red, scaly patches with indistinct edges.

Ringworm may involve the hands, particularly the palms and the spaces between the fingers. It typically causes thickening (hyperkeratosis) of these areas, often on only one hand. Tinea manuum is a common companion of tinea pedis (ringworm of the feet).

Ringworm is the most common fungal infection of the nails, also called onychomycosis. It can make fingernails look white, thick, opaque, and brittle, but more often toenails look yellow, thick, and brittle. Artificial nails increase the risk for tinea unguium as emery boards can carry infection, and water can collect under the artificial nail, creating a moist area for fungal growth.

Ringworm is highly contagious and can be spread multiple ways.

• You can get it from an infected person, animal, object, and even soil.
• Heat and moisture help fungi grow and thrive, which makes them more common in areas where you sweat.
• Fungi also grows in skin folds such as those in the groin or between the toes.

Ringworm is an example of a zoonotic disease (transmitted from animals to humans). Cats are among the most commonly affected animals. If a cat has ringworm, a person in the house often gets the infection. Dogs, cows, goats, pigs, and horses can also spread ringworm to humans. People catch ringworm from touching the animals, or touching their  bedding, grooming items, saddles, carpeting, etc.

Sometimes, the diagnosis of ringworm is obvious from its location and appearance. Otherwise, doctors can test skin scrapings for tinea fungus.

Ringworm can be treated with antifungal creams containing clotrimazole (Cruex, Lotrimin), miconazole (Desenex, Monistat-Derm), ketoconazole (Nizoral), and terbinafine (Lamisil). In cases of severe or resistant infections on the scalp or nails, doctors may prescribe oral medicines such as terbinafine, itraconazole (Sporanox), griseofulvin, fluconazole (Diflucan), ciclopirox, or naftifine.

Ringworm is difficult to prevent, but here are tips to reduce your risk:

• Don’t share clothing, sports gear, towels, or sheets.
• Wear slippers in locker rooms and public pool & bathing areas.
• Shower after any sport that includes skin-to-skin contact.
• Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Change your socks and underwear at least once a day.
• Keep skin clean and dry. Dry yourself completely after showering.
• If you have athlete’s foot, put your socks on before your underwear to prevent spreading to your groin.
• Take your pet to the vet if it has patches of missing hair, which could be a sign of a fungal infection.

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

(1) Copyright © Pulse Picture Library/CMP Images / Phototake — All rights
reserved.
(2) Copyright © ISM / Phototake — All rights reserved.
(3) David Scharf / Science Faction / Getty Images
(4) Copyright © ISM / Phototake — All rights reserved.
(5) Copyright 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC
(6) Credit: Dr. H.C. Robinson / Photo Researchers, Inc.
(7) Copyright © ISM / Phototake — All rights reserved.
(8) Copyright 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC
(9) Copyright 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC
(10) Copyright 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC
(11) Credit: Mike Devlin / Photo Researchers, Inc.
(12) David Madison / Photographer’s Choice / Getty Images
(13) Sami Sarkis / Photographer’s Choice / Getty Images
(14) Copyright 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC
(15) Brayden Knell / WebMD
(16) Adam Gault / Digital Vision / Getty Images

REFERENCES:

MedicineNet.com: Ringworm Pictures Slideshow: A Collection of Photos

© 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. View privacy policy and trust info

Symptoms, Pictures, Treatment, Diagnosis & More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a ring-shaped infection on the skin. Conditions like eczema and psoriasis can sometimes resemble ringworm, but there are key differences in appearance and treatment.

Ringworm — also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophyte infection, or tinea — is a fungal infection of the skin.

“Ringworm” is a misnomer, since a fungus, not a worm, causes the infection. The lesion caused by this infection resembles a worm in the shape of a ring, which is why it got its name.

Ringworm is usually specifically used to describe tinea corporis (ringworm of the body) or tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp). It’s sometimes used to describe tinea infection in other locations, such as tinea cruris (ringworm of the groin).

Ringworm infection can affect both humans and animals. The infection initially appears as discolored, often scaly patches on affected areas. These patches typically appear red on lighter skin or brown-gray on darker skin.

Ringworm may spread from an affected area to other parts of the body, such as the:

• scalp
• feet
• hands
• nails
• groin
• beard

Symptoms vary depending on where the infection occurs. With a skin infection, you may experience the following:

• itchiness
• itchy or scaly patches that are red, brown, or gray, or raised areas of skin called plaques
• a round, flat patch of itchy skin
• patches that develop blisters or pustules
• patches that resemble a ring with deeper color on the outside
• patches with edges that are defined and raised
• overlapping rings
• hair loss

Ringworm can look different depending on which part of the body is affected. Doctors call ringworm different names depending on where it appears on the body.

Body

The term “ringworm” is most commonly used to refer to tinea corporis, or ringworm of the body. This form often appears as patches with the characteristic round ring shape on your torso or limbs.

Scalp

Ringworm of the scalp, or tinea capitis, often starts as isolated scaling in the scalp that develops into itchy, scaly bald patches. It’s most common among children. Hair around the affected area may break or fall off, and bald patches may develop.

Beard

Ringworm of the beard, also called tinea barbae, affects your cheeks, chin, and upper neck and can cause bald patches. This may look like acne, folliculitis, or another skin condition. Some people experience fatigue or swollen lymph nodes.

Hands

Ringworm of the hand, or tinea manuum, is usually caused by touching another affected area, such as your groin or foot. Infection of the hand may look like very dry skin with deep cracks on the palm.

If the infection spreads, you may see ring-shaped patches on the back of your hand.

Groin

Jock itch, known as tinea cruris, refers to ringworm infection of the skin around the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks. It’s most common in men and adolescent boys.

This usually starts as an itchy red, brown, or gray rash where your leg and body meet. The itching may intensify after exercise and may not improve after using anti-itch cream.

Feet

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is the common name for ringworm infection of the foot. It’s frequently seen in people who walk barefoot in public places where the infection can spread, such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.

This starts as dry scaly skin between your toes that may spread to your sole and heel. Symptoms may include:

• an itching, stinging, or burning sensation
• blistering
• peeling
• a foul odor

Nails

Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium, is a ringworm infection of the nails. It affects toenails more than fingernails, as footwear often provides a moist, warm environment that fungi prefer.

Affected nails may become thicker or discolored. They may even begin to crack or lift away from your nail bed.

About 40 different species of fungus can cause ringworm. They are typically of the Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton types.

These fungi can live on your skin and other surfaces, particularly damp areas. They may also live for an extended period of time as spores in soil.

The fungi can spread to humans in four ways:

• Human to human. You can get the infection if you come in contact with a person who has ringworm or if you share personal items, such as combs or towels. The infection is commonly spread among children and by sharing items harboring the fungus.
• Animal to human. You can get ringworm after touching an affected animal or even items the animal has come in contact with. Cats and dogs are common sources, but other animals, such as farm animals, can spread the fungi as well.
• Object to human. You may get the infection if you come in contact with an object or surface that has it, such as a telephone or the floor of a public shower. These fungi thrive in damp environments.
• Soil to human. Humans and animals can get ringworm after direct contact with soil that is carrying the fungi.

Anyone can get ringworm, but you may be more at risk if you:

• live in a warm, humid environment or climate
• participate in contact sports, like wrestling or football
• use public showers or locker rooms
• come in close contact with animals
• wear tight shoes or clothes that chafe your skin
• have diabetes
• have obesity or are overweight
• sweat excessively
• have a weakened immune system

Your doctor will diagnose ringworm by examining your skin and possibly using a black light to view the affected area. Depending on the type of fungus, it may sometimes fluoresce (glow) under black light.

Your doctor may confirm a diagnosis of ringworm by requesting certain tests:

• If you’re getting either a skin biopsy or fungal culture, your doctor will take a sample of your skin or discharge from a blister and send it to a lab to test for the presence of fungus.
• If you’re getting a KOH exam, your doctor will scrape off a small area of affected skin onto a slide and place drops of a liquid called potassium hydroxide (KOH) on it. The KOH breaks apart typical skin cells, making the fungal elements easier to see under a microscope.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool here.

Your doctor may recommend both medications and lifestyle adjustments to treat ringworm.

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe various medications depending on the severity of your ringworm infection.

Jock itch, athlete’s foot, and ringworm of the body can all typically be treated with topical medications, such as antifungal:

• creams
• ointments
• gels
• sprays

Some severe cases may be treated with oral medications.

Ringworm of the scalp or nails may require prescription-strength oral medications, such as griseofulvin (Gris-PEG) or terbinafine.

Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications and antifungal skin creams as well. These products may contain clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, or other related ingredients.

Find antifungal treatments online.

Lifestyle adjustments

In addition to prescription and OTC medication, your doctor may recommend that you care for the infection at home by:

• washing bedding and clothing daily to help disinfect your surroundings
• drying your skin thoroughly after bathing
• wearing loose clothing in affected areas
• treating all affected areas, as not treating tinea pedis can lead to the recurrence of tinea cruris

Take an in-depth look at ringworm treatments here.

People have used home remedies for ringworm for many years before researchers invented antifungal treatments.

Support for use of these remedies is mostly anecdotal. There is no scientific data to support their use over OTC antifungals.

These treatments include:

• Apple cider vinegar. Some people apply cotton balls soaked in apple cider vinegar over affected areas of skin three times a day to treat ringworm.
• Coconut oil. People apply coconut oil to their skin to reduce the incidence of ringworm infections. If you want to try this remedy, apply coconut oil one to three times a day.
• Turmeric. You can mix turmeric, a common spice, with water to make an antifungal paste. Apply the paste directly to your skin and allow it to dry.

A caution about home remedies

Home remedies shouldn’t be used in place of known antifungal treatments. Instead, discuss any you might like to try alongside proven treatments with your doctor.

Learn more about home remedies for ringworm, including powdered licorice.

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from flowers, herbs, and other plant types.

There is no scientific data, only anecdotal evidence, to support the routine use of essential oils in treating antifungal infections like ringworm.

You may want to discuss essential oils with your doctor before use and should not use them to replace conventional treatments.

Some of the essentials oils people use to treat ringworm include:

• oregano oil
• lemongrass oil
• tea tree oil

These oils can be potent, so you will need to dilute them with a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil, before applying the mixture to your skin.

Mixing two or three oils together with a carrier oil may give you better results, but this is only anecdotal and not scientifically proven.

You won’t see ringworm right away when you first pick up the fungus. It can take up to 2 weeks before you start noticing symptoms. Some of the stages you may see include:

• Initial stage. During this stage, you may notice a discolored, irritated patch of skin. Sometimes, it just appears very dry and scaly, not necessarily like ringworm.
• Second stage. During this stage, you’ll notice the lesion starts to grow in size. The center of the rash may resemble healthy skin with a surrounding scaly area.

Because ringworm is so contagious, you’ll want to start treatment at the first signs of it. If you don’t, it may spread and grow.

Anyone can develop ringworm. However, the infection is very common among children and people who own cats or dogs. Both cats and dogs can get ringworm, and then pass it on to humans who touch them.

Signs to be aware of in pets include:

• hairless patches of skin that appear circular
• crusty or scaly patches
• patches that may not be completely hairless but have brittle or broken hairs
• opaque or whitish areas around the claws

If you suspect your pet has ringworm, bring them to your veterinarian for an examination.

You may be more likely to develop dermatophytosis if you come in contact with fungi while your skin is soft and wet from prolonged water exposure (macerated) or while you have minor skin injuries or abrasions.

Using a public shower or public pool may also expose you to the infectious fungi.

If you’re often barefoot, you may develop ringworm on your feet. Those who often share items such as hairbrushes or unwashed clothing also have an increased risk of developing the infection.

Ringworm can closely resemble another condition called nummular eczema. Doctors also call nummular eczema discoid eczema or nummular dermatitis as well.

The two conditions are similar because they both cause round or coin-shaped lesions on your skin. The lesions are often itchy and scaly.

A person with ringworm usually has fewer ring-like patches than a person who has nummular eczema. Also, nummular eczema usually doesn’t have a clearing (normal-appearing skin) in the center, while ringworm does.

Ringworm may also have pustules associated with it, while nummular eczema typically doesn’t.

Sometimes the two conditions look so much alike that the only way to tell the difference is to speak with your doctor. A doctor can take samples of the skin cells and send them to a laboratory for testing.

Doctors treat nummular eczema in different ways from ringworm. They use topical steroids, which if used for ringworm infections, can mask as well as worsen the infection. Antifungal ointments won’t help nummular eczema.

Learn more about the differences between the two and how to treat them.

Psoriasis is another skin condition that can sometimes resemble ringworm. Plaque psoriasis is a disorder due to immune dysfunction that produces inflammatory plaques on your skin.

On lighter skin, plaque psoriasis appears as pink plaques with heavy white scales. On darker skin, it appears as purple patches with gray scales.

Small isolated plaques can sometimes look similar to ringworm. Both ringworm and psoriasis can cause discolored patches of skin as well as itching and scaling.

However, ringworm on your torso or limbs will usually have a circular appearance with a clearing in the middle. It will also usually be an isolated spot or limited to only a few lesions.

Plaque psoriasis skin lesions are usually larger, involve more areas of your skin, and occur in distinct locations, like your lower back, elbows, and knees. Psoriasis lesions also don’t typically have a clearing in the middle.

The conditions have different underlying causes as well. A fungus causes ringworm, while a dysfunctional immune system causes psoriasis.

Find out how to identify ringworm and psoriasis.

If left untreated, ringworm can spread to other areas of your body. You may also risk spreading the infection to someone else. Other potential complications include:

• hair loss and scarring
• dark marks left on your skin, particularly on darker skin
• nail deformities
• secondary infection if any bacteria entered broken skin, which is common in children
• Majocchi’s granuloma, a rare infection where the fungus has made its way to deeper layers of the skin

The complications of tinea capitis can be worrisome because it can produce life-long permanent hair loss. When considering these potential complications, it’s best to treat ringworm as quickly as possible.

Practicing healthy and hygienic behaviors can help prevent ringworm. Infections may come from contact with animals and lack of hygiene. Several tips to prevent ringworm include:

• washing your hands after interacting with an animal
• disinfecting and cleaning pet living areas
• limiting contact with people or animals with ringworm if you have a weakened immune system
• wearing shoes if showering or walking in community areas
• not sharing personal items like clothing, towels, or hairbrushes with people who might have ringworm
• changing your socks and underwear at least once a day
• keeping your gear and uniform clean if you play sports
• keeping your skin clean and dry

If you get ringworm during pregnancy, there are medications you can use to treat it that aren’t known to cause any problems to a baby.

Examples of these drugs, which are fine to use when applied topically, include:

• ciclopirox (Loprox)
• clotrimazole (Lotrimin)
• naftifine (Naftin)
• oxiconazole (Oxistat)
• terbinafine

However, it’s always best to talk with your doctor before using any medications while pregnant.

Most medications can’t be properly studied in pregnant people due to the ethical implications of these studies. So it’s nearly impossible to say with full certainty that a medication, whether topical or oral, will be safe to use.

Doctors don’t usually recommend taking oral medications to treat fungal infections during pregnancy. Some oral medications that have the potential to cause known, unwanted side effects include oral ketoconazole and oral miconazole.

Regardless of the medication of choice, if you’re pregnant and have ringworm, it’s best to ask your doctor first before using any kind of medication or home remedy to treat your condition.

You should also talk with your doctor before using any medications if you are breastfeeding.

You can get ringworm from your dog. Dogs can pick up fungus spores from the environment, and the spores transfer to whatever the dog’s hair touches. Examples include:

• bedding
• carpeting
• clothing
• dog brushes
• food bowls

Watch your dog regularly for signs of ringworm. They will usually have a loss of fur on their skin, often in a circular pattern. If you observe this, contact your dog’s veterinarian.

You should also wash your hands frequently after petting your dog to reduce the risk of infection whenever possible.

According to the American Kennel Club, cats are more prone to getting ringworm than dogs. They can pass the condition on to humans as well.

Like ringworm in dogs, if you spot ringworm in cats, call your veterinarian. They can prescribe antifungal treatments.

You should also wash your hands after petting your cat and try to clean all of the items they come in contact with, such as brushes and water bowls.

If you do get ringworm from your cat, you can treat it the same way as you would any fungal infection. This includes topical antifungals.

Skin medications may clear ringworm on your torso and limbs in 2 to 4 weeks.

If you’re experiencing severe dermatophytosis that isn’t responding to OTC treatments or home remedies, or if you suspect a tinea infection of your scalp or hair follicles, your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills to clear up the infection.

Most people respond positively to treatment.

species, what it looks like, treatment and prevention

Lichen is a collective name for various skin diseases that have little in common except for external manifestations: rashes and itching. About what types and names of lichen a person has, how they differ, how they are transmitted and treated, read in our material.

Tags:

Diseases

Skin diseases

Photo by Brett Sayles: Pexels

The term “lichen” appeared in antiquity and is still used according to the established tradition, combining dermatoses of different origin. That is why it makes no sense to look for a universal ointment from depriving a person on the skin: all types of lichen are treated differently.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

What types of lichen are there in humans? Lichen on a person’s skin looks like pink spots with inflamed blisters around the edges. The skin of the body and scalp is affected, bald spots form on the spots. Such plaques flake and itch, causing a lot of anxiety.

ADVERTISING – CONTINUED BELOW

Shingles

This infection is caused by the herpes zoster virus, the same one that causes chickenpox. If you had chicken pox in childhood, then after recovery, the virus remains forever living in your nerve cells, so that one not-so-beautiful day will be activated due to a decrease in immunity or against the background of some disease. Shingles in humans causes pain and itching along the intercostal nerves. After a few days, pimples appear that itch, hurt and turn into characteristic blisters.

In severe cases, the rash encircles the body on one or both sides, which gave the name of the disease. Keep in mind: during this period, a person can infect those who have not had chickenpox with chickenpox. Contacts are safe for those who have been ill.

Pityriasis rosea in humans

The correct name for this disease is erythematous-squamous dermatosis. Pink lichen in humans is not contagious. The exact causes of the disease are unknown, but often rashes appear after SARS, and then lifelong immunity is formed.

What does rosacea look like in humans? First, a pink round spot appears with scales in the center. In the future, multiple plaques are formed with red edges and a pale scaly middle. They are located on the arms, legs or groin, but never on the head, feet and hands.

Pityriasis versicolor

Pityriasis versicolor in humans is a non-contagious fungal disease. Reddish-brown spots appear on the skin with “lace” edges and a flaky center, as if sprinkled with bran. The spots may merge with each other. The UV light makes the spots disappear, but untanned areas remain in their place.

A mild form of the disease is sometimes called white or solar lichen.

Lichen planus

The causes of this disease (also called Wilson’s lichen) are unknown, but there is no danger of infection. Lichen on the human body looks like small shiny red-violet nodules with a depressed center. On the surface of the largest nodules, a white mesh pattern can be seen. The rash is accompanied by intense itching.

Weeping lichen in man

This is sometimes called eczema – a non-contagious skin disease that owes its occurrence to a whole range of causes. The disease is characterized by several stages: first, the skin turns red, then a rash appears, then weeping areas that crust over time.

Psoriasis psoriasis

This is a chronic disease, presumably an autoimmune disease. The disease is not contagious. Convex scaly red plaques appear on the skin, the skin in these areas is very dry. The formation of cracks in the skin and itching is possible.

Causes of lichen in humans and ways of infection

There is no single cause for different types of lichen. In truth, in most cases, the causes are not known at all. For example, psoriasis may be an autoimmune disease, but this has not yet been proven. Eczema, in turn, can occur for many different reasons – from contact with aggressive substances to diseases of the nervous system. At the same time, about ringworm (cat’s) lichen in humans, it is known for sure that this is a fungal and highly contagious disease. It has been proven that versicolor is also caused by fungi, but this disease is non-contagious.

Herpes zoster is of viral origin, but it cannot be infected: the virus, peacefully dormant in the person himself, is reactivated. Scientists suspect that pink lichen in humans is also of viral origin, but the exact causes of its occurrence have not been identified.

Symptoms of lichen in humans

The main symptom of any lichen in humans is a rash on the skin. With lichen planus, rashes on the mucous membranes are possible, with psoriasis, joints are also affected, with shingles, a short-term fever and general malaise are possible. But the rash on the skin is present in any case.

It makes no sense to compare your rashes with a photo of a person on the Internet: the manifestations of the disease do not always have a typical appearance. Only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis, therefore, if suspicious spots or plaques appear, it is better to immediately go to the doctor, and not waste time figuring out whether to deprive it or something else.

Diagnosis of lichen

The specialist, unlike the patient, knows perfectly well what lichen looks like, including its atypical forms. For diagnosis, a test with an iodine solution, curettage of plaques, examination under a Wood’s lamp, and other studies can be used. Taking anamnesis also helps to clarify the diagnosis.

After all examinations, the doctor makes a diagnosis and prescribes treatment. The sooner this happens, the more likely it is to quickly get rid of unpleasant symptoms, so do not delay your visit to the doctor.

Treatment of lichen in a person

How to treat lichen is determined by the doctor: you should not prescribe medications yourself, as this can only aggravate the symptoms. Depending on the type of lichen, therapy can be fundamentally different: there is no universal pill for lichen for a person.

Drug treatment of lichen in humans: preparations

To treat shingles on human skin, antiviral, or rather, antiherpetic drugs are used – the same ones that are used to treat chickenpox. They are more effective the earlier the therapy is started. As a rule, not only ointments for depriving a person are prescribed, but also tablets that need to be drunk at regular intervals. The ailment disappears almost immediately, it takes more time to eliminate blisters on the skin, but they disappear after about a week.

Antifungal agents for lichen in a person are prescribed if the disease is fungal – with ringworm or multicolored lichen. First, the doctor determines which fungus caused the pathology, and then selects an effective remedy against it. As a rule, ointments and creams are used to treat lichen on human skin. If the lesion is very severe, affecting large areas, the doctor may also prescribe tablets.

Ointments are not the only answer to the question of how to treat lichen in humans. As a rule, in addition to external agents, doctors also prescribe antihistamines that reduce itching, for example, with lichen planus. Such pills do not act on the cause of the disease, but help to remove unpleasant symptoms.

In severe cases, doctors prescribe glucocorticosteroids, steroid hormones with anti-inflammatory effects, to reduce itching. Most often they are used to treat pink lichen. We will not voice the names of hormonal ointments from depriving a person, because they are selected individually and are usually used only in difficult cases. It is very important to follow all the doctor’s instructions on the use of such drugs, since they have side effects.

In rare cases, if sleep is disturbed, sedatives and antidepressants may be needed (yes, they are effective not only for depression). According to the reviews of people with lichen, such treatment complements eniotropic (aimed at treating the cause of the disease) therapy well.

How else to treat lichen in a person? Since such diseases often appear against the background of a decrease in immunity, dermatologists often prescribe vitamin and mineral complexes that will help the body fight diseases. First of all, these are B vitamins, especially thiamine, which has analgesic, desensitizing, anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, this vitamin stimulates skin renewal.

Unlike more serious remedies, you can “prescribe” vitamins for yourself. Thiamin is found in wholemeal flour, legumes, spinach, yeast, organ meats, pork and beef. The inclusion of such products in the menu will definitely not harm your health, and the condition of the skin can improve no worse than when using an ointment for human lichen, and the price of proper nutrition will certainly be lower.

Non-drug treatment for lichen

Physiotherapy may be used as an adjunct to medication. These are, first of all, ultraviolet irradiation, phototherapy, ozone therapy. These methods alone cannot eliminate the symptoms, but complement the treatment of pink, multi-colored, lichen planus in humans well.

Prevention of lichen in humans

What is lichen? These are different diseases, united by one name. Naturally, there are no and cannot be any universal preventive measures. All doctors can recommend is to lead a healthy lifestyle.

You know what that means: a healthy varied diet, fresh air, more movement, less stress and no bad habits. If immunity is in order, then an adult has little chance of getting sick – at least if there is no ringworm outbreak nearby. So just take care of your health. And if some incomprehensible rash appears on the skin, do not guess in vain whether it is human lichen or not, but simply contact a dermatologist who will make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Lichen – causes, types, treatment || Centromed Medical Center

This pathology includes a group of skin diseases that cause various infections of a bacterial, fungal and viral nature. Treatment of lichen in humans differs in the type of interventions carried out depending on its cause.

Causes and types

This is primarily an infectious skin disease caused by several groups of microorganisms:

• Viruses (shingles and pink).
• Fungi (ringworm).
• Hereditary genetic disorders (pityriasis and flat).

Risk groups

This skin pathology does not occur in all people, there are certain categories of the population that are at risk:

• Children – they often have ringworm of the hair and skin, which is transmitted to them from animals (cats, dogs).
• People with a hereditary predisposition – if one of the parents is sick with a pityriasis or flat pathological process, then there is a high probability that their children will also get sick.
• Acquired or congenital immunodeficiency – insufficient functioning of the immune system increases the risk of developing shingles or zoster erythematosus.
• People with insufficient personal hygiene are at risk for fungal infections of the body.

Symptoms of lichen in humans

Manifestations of pathology are the appearance of spots on the skin, which can peel off and be accompanied by itching. Depending on the cause, ringworm symptoms has different, respectively, and treatment of will also differ:

• Shingles – manifested by the appearance of small red rashes, in the center of which there is a vial with a clear liquid, treatment of consists in the use of general and local antiviral agents (acyclovir, herpevir).
• Pityriasis rosea – characterized by the appearance of a red spot about 2 cm in diameter, then smaller spots join, all of them with peeling in the center, special treatment is rarely used, the pathology resolves on its own within 2 months.
• Lichen planus – a chronic pathology with a hereditary predisposition, manifested by the development of small red rashes with their itching, which do not protrude above the skin level, treatment is complex with the use of antihistamines. This disease usually lasts for years with periods of remission (improvement) and relapse (exacerbation).
• Pityriasis versicolor is a disease with a metabolic disorder in the skin, has a hereditary genetic predisposition in its development, is characterized by the appearance of red spots with severe peeling of the skin, treatment of involves the use of local hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs (hydrocortisone ointment).
• Ringworm – the main symptoms are red spots with peeling and itching, damage to the hair at their base, long-term treatment with antifungal agents (terbinafine, clotrimazole).

Peculiarities of therapy in children

Children are at risk of developing a fungal infection of the integument of the body, as they can stroke stray animals (cats, dogs), which are the source of infection. Treatment of lichen in children has its own characteristics:

• Local forms of antifungal drugs (cream or ointment) are preferred.