What is ringworm and how does it spread. What are the common symptoms of ringworm infections. How can ringworm be effectively treated and prevented. What are the risk factors for developing ringworm. How is ringworm diagnosed by healthcare professionals. What are the potential complications of untreated ringworm infections. How long does it take for ringworm treatment to show results.

Understanding Ringworm: A Common Fungal Infection

Ringworm is a misleading name for a condition that has nothing to do with worms. It’s actually a fungal infection that affects the skin, scalp, or nails. The name comes from the characteristic ring-shaped rash that often appears on the skin. Despite its prevalence, many people are unaware of its true nature and how to effectively manage it.

What Causes Ringworm?

Ringworm is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can easily spread through direct contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated objects. The most common fungi responsible for ringworm infections include:

• Trichophyton rubrum
• Microsporum canis
• Trichophyton mentagrophytes

These fungi can survive on surfaces for extended periods, making it easy for the infection to spread in communal areas like locker rooms, swimming pools, and shared living spaces.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Ringworm

Ringworm can manifest in various ways depending on the affected area of the body. However, there are some common symptoms to watch out for:

• Circular, red, and scaly patches with raised edges
• Intense itching in the affected area
• Hair loss in patches if the scalp is affected
• Cracking, peeling, or scaling of the skin
• Blisters or pustules in severe cases

Is the appearance of these symptoms always indicative of ringworm? While these signs are characteristic of ringworm, it’s important to note that other skin conditions can present similar symptoms. A proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional is crucial for effective treatment.

Different Types of Ringworm Infections

Ringworm can affect various parts of the body, each with its own medical term:

1. Tinea corporis – ringworm of the body
2. Tinea capitis – ringworm of the scalp
3. Tinea pedis – athlete’s foot
4. Tinea cruris – jock itch
5. Tinea manuum – ringworm of the hand
6. Tinea unguium – ringworm of the nails (onychomycosis)

Each type may have slightly different symptoms and treatment approaches, but all are caused by the same group of fungi.

Diagnosing Ringworm: From Visual Inspection to Laboratory Tests

How do healthcare professionals diagnose ringworm? The diagnosis of ringworm typically involves a combination of visual examination and laboratory tests. Here’s what you can expect during the diagnostic process:

1. Visual inspection: A doctor will examine the affected area, looking for the characteristic ring-shaped rash and other symptoms.
2. Wood’s lamp examination: In some cases, a special ultraviolet light is used to detect certain types of fungal infections.
3. Skin scraping: A small sample of skin is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope to identify the fungus.
4. Fungal culture: If the diagnosis is uncertain, a sample may be cultured to identify the specific fungus causing the infection.

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan and preventing the spread of the infection to others.

Effective Treatment Options for Ringworm

Once diagnosed, ringworm can be treated effectively with antifungal medications. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the affected area.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For mild cases of ringworm, over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, or powders may be sufficient. These typically contain active ingredients such as:

• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Terbinafine
• Ketoconazole

How long should you use these topical treatments? Most over-the-counter treatments should be applied for at least two weeks, even if symptoms improve earlier. This helps ensure that the fungus is completely eradicated and prevents recurrence.

Prescription Medications

For more severe or persistent cases, prescription medications may be necessary. These can include:

• Stronger topical antifungals
• Oral antifungal medications like fluconazole or itraconazole
• Medicated shampoos for scalp ringworm

Oral medications are typically reserved for extensive infections or cases that don’t respond to topical treatments. They may be prescribed for several weeks to ensure complete eradication of the fungus.

Preventing the Spread of Ringworm: Essential Hygiene Practices

Preventing ringworm involves a combination of good hygiene practices and awareness. Here are some key strategies to reduce the risk of infection:

• Keep skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms and swimming pools
• Don’t share personal items like towels, clothing, or hairbrushes
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing
• Change socks and underwear daily
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling pets, especially if they have suspicious skin patches
• Shower and change clothes immediately after contact sports

How effective are these preventive measures? While no prevention method is 100% foolproof, consistently following these practices can significantly reduce the risk of contracting or spreading ringworm.

Ringworm in Pets: A Hidden Source of Infection

Pets, particularly cats and dogs, can be carriers of ringworm fungi. They may show symptoms such as circular patches of hair loss or may be asymptomatic carriers. If you suspect your pet has ringworm:

1. Take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment
2. Isolate the infected pet from other animals and limit human contact
3. Follow the vet’s treatment plan, which may include oral medications and medicated shampoos
4. Thoroughly clean and disinfect your home, focusing on areas where the pet spends time

Can humans contract ringworm from pets? Yes, ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans. This is why prompt treatment of infected pets is crucial for preventing the spread to human family members.

Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention

While ringworm is generally not serious, it can lead to complications if left untreated. Potential complications include:

• Secondary bacterial infections
• Widespread fungal infection, especially in immunocompromised individuals
• Scarring or permanent hair loss in severe scalp infections
• Emotional distress due to the appearance of the rash

When should you consult a healthcare professional for ringworm? Seek medical attention if:

• The rash doesn’t improve after two weeks of over-the-counter treatment
• The infection appears to be spreading or worsening
• You develop a fever or other signs of a secondary infection
• The rash is on your scalp or beard area
• You have a weakened immune system

Early intervention can prevent the infection from becoming more severe and reduce the risk of complications.

Living with Ringworm: Managing Symptoms and Preventing Recurrence

Dealing with a ringworm infection can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence:

1. Follow treatment instructions diligently, even if symptoms improve quickly
2. Keep the affected area clean and dry
3. Avoid scratching, which can spread the infection and lead to secondary bacterial infections
4. Use cool compresses to relieve itching
5. Wash bedding, clothing, and towels frequently in hot water
6. Continue preventive measures even after the infection clears to avoid reinfection

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

Psychological Impact of Ringworm

While ringworm is a physical condition, it can have psychological effects, especially if it’s visible or recurrent. Some individuals may experience:

• Embarrassment or self-consciousness about the appearance of the rash
• Anxiety about spreading the infection to others
• Frustration with the treatment process or recurrence

If you’re struggling with the emotional aspects of ringworm, don’t hesitate to discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider. They can offer support and resources to help you cope with the psychological impact of the infection.

Ringworm in Special Populations: Children, Athletes, and Immunocompromised Individuals

Certain groups may be at higher risk for ringworm infections or may require special considerations in treatment:

Children

Children, especially those in daycare or school settings, are particularly susceptible to ringworm due to close contact with others and less developed hygiene practices. For children:

• Teach proper handwashing and hygiene habits
• Encourage them not to share personal items
• Check for signs of infection regularly, especially if there’s an outbreak at school
• Consult a pediatrician before using over-the-counter treatments, as some may not be suitable for young children

Athletes

Athletes, particularly those involved in contact sports, are at increased risk due to skin-to-skin contact and shared equipment. Athletes should:

• Shower immediately after practices and competitions
• Use antifungal powders or sprays in shoes and on equipment
• Avoid sharing towels, uniforms, or other personal items
• Regularly clean and disinfect sports equipment

Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may experience more severe or widespread ringworm infections. For these individuals:

• Prompt medical attention is crucial at the first sign of infection
• Preventive measures are especially important
• Treatment may be more aggressive or prolonged
• Close monitoring for complications is necessary

How does the approach to treatment differ for these special populations? Treatment for these groups often requires a more tailored approach, considering factors such as age, overall health status, and potential drug interactions. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Ringworm

While current treatments for ringworm are generally effective, researchers continue to explore new approaches to managing fungal infections. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of new antifungal compounds with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
• Exploration of natural and plant-based antifungal agents
• Investigation of novel drug delivery methods for more targeted treatment
• Research into the potential of probiotic therapies to prevent fungal overgrowth
• Studies on the genetic factors that influence susceptibility to fungal infections

What potential breakthroughs might we see in ringworm treatment in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, ongoing research suggests that we may see more personalized treatment approaches, faster-acting medications, and potentially even preventive therapies in the future.

The Role of Probiotics in Fungal Infections

An emerging area of interest is the potential role of probiotics in preventing and managing fungal infections like ringworm. Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may help:

• Strengthen the skin’s natural defense against fungal overgrowth
• Reduce inflammation associated with fungal infections
• Enhance the efficacy of traditional antifungal treatments

While more research is needed to fully understand the potential of probiotics in managing ringworm, this area represents an exciting frontier in fungal infection research.

Global Impact of Ringworm: Prevalence and Public Health Considerations

Ringworm is a global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. Its prevalence varies by region, with higher rates typically seen in:

• Tropical and subtropical climates
• Areas with limited access to healthcare and hygiene facilities
• Regions with high population density
• Communities with close human-animal contact

How does the global prevalence of ringworm impact public health strategies? The widespread nature of ringworm infections necessitates a multi-faceted approach to public health management, including:

1. Education campaigns to raise awareness about prevention and early treatment
2. Improved access to antifungal medications in underserved areas
3. Implementation of hygiene programs in schools and community centers
4. Collaborative efforts between human and veterinary health sectors to address zoonotic transmission
5. Research initiatives to better understand regional variations in fungal strains and drug resistance

By addressing ringworm as a global health issue, public health organizations can work towards reducing its prevalence and impact on communities worldwide.

Economic Impact of Ringworm

The economic burden of ringworm extends beyond individual treatment costs. Factors contributing to the economic impact include:

• Healthcare expenses for diagnosis and treatment
• Lost productivity due to time off work or school
• Costs associated with prevention measures in healthcare and athletic facilities
• Economic losses in the livestock industry due to animal infections

Understanding the full economic impact of ringworm can help guide resource allocation for prevention and treatment programs, ultimately leading to more cost-effective management of this common fungal infection.

Ringworm of the Skin | Michigan Medicine

Topic Overview

Is this topic for you?

This topic is about ringworm of the skin, groin, or hands. For information about other fungal infections, see the topics:

What is ringworm of the skin?

Ringworm of the skin is an infection caused by a fungus.

Jock itch is a form of ringworm that causes an itchy rash on the skin of your groin area. It is much more common in men than in women. Jock itch may be caused by the spread of athlete’s foot fungus to the groin.

What causes ringworm?

Ringworm is not caused by a worm. It is caused by a fungus. The kinds of fungi (plural of fungus) that cause ringworm live and spread on the top layer of the skin and on the hair. They grow best in warm, moist areas, such as locker rooms and swimming pools, and in skin folds.

Ringworm is contagious. It spreads when you have skin-to-skin contact with a person or animal that has it. It can also spread when you share things like towels, clothing, or sports gear.

You can also get ringworm by touching an infected dog or cat, although this form of ringworm is not common.

What are the symptoms?

Ringworm of the skin usually causes a very itchy rash. It often makes a pattern in the shape of a ring, but not always. Sometimes it is just a red, itchy rash.

Jock itch is a rash in the skin folds of the groin. It may also spread to the inner thighs or buttocks.

Ringworm of the hand looks like athlete’s foot. The skin on the palm of the hand gets thick, dry, and scaly. And skin between the fingers may be moist and have open sores.

How is ringworm of the skin diagnosed?

If you have a ring-shaped rash, you very likely have ringworm. Your doctor will be able to tell for sure. He or she will probably look at a scraping from the rash under a microscope to check for the ringworm fungus.

How is it treated?

Most ringworm of the skin can be treated at home with creams you can buy without a prescription. Your rash may clear up soon after you start treatment, but it’s important to keep using the cream for as long as the label or your doctor says. This will help keep the infection from coming back. If the cream doesn’t work, your doctor can prescribe pills that will kill the fungus.

If ringworm is not treated, your skin could blister, and the cracks could become infected with bacteria. If this happens, you will need antibiotics.

If your child is being treated for ringworm, you don’t have to keep him or her out of school or day care.

Can you prevent ringworm?

To prevent ringworm:

• Don’t share clothing, sports gear, towels, or sheets. If you think you have been exposed to ringworm, wash your clothes in hot water with special anti-fungus soap.
• Wear slippers or sandals in locker rooms and public bathing areas.
• Shower and shampoo well 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 your skin clean and dry. Always dry yourself completely after showers or baths, drying your feet last.
• If you have athlete’s foot, put your socks on before your underwear so that fungi do not spread from your feet 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.

If you or someone in your family has symptoms, it is important to treat ringworm right away to keep other family members from getting it.

Cause

Ringworm infection is caused by a fungus. Fungi (plural of fungus) that cause ringworm live and spread on the outer layer of skin. Ringworm is not caused by a worm or other parasite.

Fungi are present everywhere in our environment, including on the human body. They thrive in warm, moist areas, such as locker rooms and swimming pools, and in skin folds. You can get ringworm of the skin by sharing contaminated towels, clothing, and sports equipment, and by direct contact with an infected person.

Ringworm of the skin (tinea corporis) is most commonly caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum, which spreads from one person to another. It can also be caused by Microsporum canis, which is spread by cats and dogs. This type is less common but causes a more severe infection.

People often get ringworm of the groin (“jock itch”) by accidentally spreading athlete’s foot fungus to their own groin area. People who have athlete’s foot also commonly spread it to their hands (tinea manuum).

Some people are more likely to get fungal infections than others. The tendency to get fungal skin infections or to have them return after treatment seems to run in families.

Symptoms

Most ringworm infections cause a rash that may be peeling, cracking, scaling, itching, and red. Sometimes the rash forms blisters, especially on the feet.

Symptoms of ringworm of the body include a rash:

• On the chest, stomach, arms, legs, or back.
• With edges that are red and scaly or moist and crusted. The rash also may have small bumps that look like blisters. The center of the rash may be clear, giving it a ring-shaped appearance, or there may be a cluster of red bumps.
• That may form large, round patches.

Symptoms of ringworm of the face include a rash:

• On the face, the ears, or both.
• With a border that may not be very distinct.
• That may get worse after being in the sun.

Symptoms of ringworm of the groin (jock itch) include a rash:

• On the groin, skin folds, inner thighs, or buttocks. The rash usually does not occur on the scrotum or penis.
• With edges that are very distinct and may be scaly or have bumps that look like blisters.
• That may have a red-brown center.

Jock itch
and athlete’s foot frequently occur at the same time.

Symptoms of ringworm on the hand include a rash:

• On the palm that may be mistaken for eczema.
• On the palm that is thickened, dry, and scaly, similar to athlete’s foot, while skin between the fingers may be moist and have open sores.
• On the back of the hand that is red and scaly, with edges that have bumps that look like blisters.

Fingernails can also be infected. For more information, see the topic Fungal Nail Infections.

Ringworm of the skin may be confused with other conditions with similar symptoms, such as eczema or psoriasis.

What Happens

Ringworm of the skin can start as a small patch of itchy, red, or scaling skin. The rash can spread and cover a large area.

Clothing that rubs the skin can irritate the rash. Sweat, heat, or moisture in the air (humidity) can make the itching and infection worse.

As the infection becomes worse, the ring-shaped pattern and red-brown color may become more visible. If not treated, the skin can become irritated and painful. Skin blisters and cracks can become infected with bacteria and require antibiotics.

Ringworm can also spread to other parts of the body, including the feet, nails, scalp, or beard.

After treatment, the rash will go away. But ringworm can return unless you follow steps to prevent it. The tendency to get fungal skin infections or to have them return after treatment seems to run in families.

What Increases Your Risk

Your risk of getting ringworm is higher if:

• You come in contact with a person who has a fungal infection or with a carrier, a person who has the fungi but does not have symptoms.
• You are susceptible to fungal infections or you have had a previous fungal infection.
• You have an impaired immune system due to a disease such as diabetes or cancer.
• You live in a warm, damp climate.
• You wear tight-fitting clothes or you let your skin stay damp for long periods, such as by staying in a wet bathing suit or sweaty workout clothes.
• You are a wrestler.

When should you call your doctor?

If you suspect you have ringworm of the skin, call your doctor if:

• You have patches of skin that are itchy, red, or scaly with bumps that look like blisters, and they have not improved after 2 weeks of treatment with a nonprescription antifungal product.
• Signs of bacterial infection develop. Signs may include:
  • Increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, or heat.
  • Red streaks extending from the area.
  • Discharge of pus.
  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher with no other cause.
• The rash appears to be spreading even after treatment.

Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting is a wait-and-see approach. If you get better on your own, you won’t need treatment. If you get worse, you and your doctor will decide what to do next.

You can treat ringworm at home with medicines you can buy without a prescription. If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks of treatment with this medicine, call your doctor.

Any persistent, severe, or recurring infection should be checked by your doctor.

Who to see

The following health professionals can diagnose and treat ringworm of the skin:

Exams and Tests

Doctors often can easily recognize ringworm by its ring-shaped rash. Your doctor will probably also look at a skin sample (KOH preparation) under a microscope to confirm that fungus is present.

Tests for ringworm of the skin include:

• A KOH (potassium hydroxide) preparation. This test can help your doctor find out whether a fungus is causing your rash. The doctor will take a sample of your skin by lightly scraping the infected area. The sample is placed on a slide with potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution and gently heated. If fungus cells are present, the doctor can then see them with a microscope.
• A Wood’s light exam. This test may be used to see if the rash is caused by a fungus. Your doctor will shine a special light on your skin where you have the rash. Certain kinds of fungi glow under this light.
• A fungal culture (skin culture). This test can identify the type of fungus that is causing your infection. Usually a culture is only done if the diagnosis is difficult or the skin condition is not responding to treatment. This test may take up to 4 weeks, because it takes time for the fungus to grow.

Treatment Overview

Most cases of ringworm of the skin, including jock itch and ringworm of the hand, can be treated with creams or ointments that you put on your skin to kill fungi. These are called topical antifungals. You can get many topical antifungals without a prescription. Brand names include Micatin, Tinactin, Mycelex, and Lamisil.

You may need to take antifungal pills (oral treatment) if the ringworm does not go away after you have tried different topical antifungals or if the infection is widespread. Oral treatments include azoles such as fluconazole (Diflucan), allylamines such as terbinafine (Lamisil), and griseofulvin (Grifulvin V).

Your rash may start to clear up soon after you begin treatment, but it is important to use the medicine exactly as the label or your doctor says. This will help keep the infection from coming back. You will probably need to continue treatment for 2 to 4 weeks.

If not treated, ringworm can spread and the skin can become irritated and painful. Skin blisters and cracks can become infected with bacteria. If this happens, you may need to take antibiotics.

What to think about

You should treat a fungal infection right away. Severe and widespread infections can be hard to treat.

Prevention

To prevent ringworm of the skin:

• Keep your skin clean and dry. Change your socks and underwear at least once a day.
• Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Avoid tight underwear, pants, and panty hose.
• Always dry yourself completely after showers or baths. After drying your skin with a towel, allow your skin to air-dry before putting your clothes on. You can also use a hair dryer, set on a cool setting, to dry your skin.
• Do not share clothing, sports equipment, towels, or sheets. If you think you have been exposed to ringworm, wash your clothes in hot water with fungus-killing (fungicidal) soap.
• Wear slippers or sandals in locker rooms, showers, and public bathing areas.
• Shower and shampoo thoroughly after any sport that requires skin-to-skin contact.
• If you have athlete’s foot, put your socks on before your underwear so that fungi do not spread from your feet to your groin. Also, when toweling off after a shower or bath, dry your feet last.
• Take your pet to a veterinarian if it has patches of missing hair, which may be a sign of a fungal infection. Household pets can spread fungi that cause ringworm in people.

Home Treatment

In most cases, you can treat ringworm of the skin with antifungal creams or ointments. Many are available without a prescription. Use a nonprescription antifungal cream with miconazole or clotrimazole in it. Brand names include Micatin, Mycelex, and Tinactin. Terbinafine cream (Lamisil) is also available without a prescription.

• Wash the rash with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. For large areas of blistered sores, use compresses such as those made with Burow’s solution (available without a prescription) to soothe and dry out the blisters.
• Apply antifungal cream beyond the edge or border of the rash.
• Follow the directions on the package. Don’t stop using the medicine just because your symptoms go away. You will probably need to continue treatment for 2 to 4 weeks.
• If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, call your doctor.

If your rash does not clear after you have tried different topical antifungals, or if the infection is widespread, you may need prescription antifungal pills.

If you have both athlete’s foot and ringworm of your groin or legs, you should treat both infections. This will prevent you from re-infecting your legs or groin with the athlete’s foot fungus, when you put on your underwear.

Medications

Most ringworm infections of the skin can be treated at home with nonprescription antifungal creams. The rash will usually improve within 2 weeks.

If the rash does not improve after you have used an antifungal cream and it is severe and widespread or returns frequently, you may need antifungal pills that your doctor prescribes. When you are treating ringworm, it is important to finish the full course of medicine prescribed, even if the symptoms have gone away, so that the infection does not return.

Medicine choices

The most common antifungals used to treat ringworm of the skin are:

• Allylamines, such as terbinafine (Lamisil). Allylamines come as creams, pills, and gels. Terbinafine also comes as oral granules, which are little grains that can be sprinkled over food and easily swallowed. Lamisil is available as a cream without a prescription.
• Azoles. Oral prescription forms include fluconazole (Diflucan) and itraconazole (Sporanox). Some of these medicines are available without a prescription. Brand names include Micatin and Mycelex.
• Griseofulvin (Grifulvin V). Griseofulvin comes in pill form and requires a prescription.
• Other antifungals such as tolnaftate (Tinactin). Tinactin is available without a prescription and comes in lotion, cream, gel, and spray forms.

Clotrimazole/betamethasone (Lotrisone), a combination antifungal and corticosteroid, is sometimes used to treat ringworm that is burning, itchy, and inflamed. This prescription medicine should be used with caution and for no longer than 2 weeks, because complications can occur with long-term use of corticosteroids.

What to think about

People who are taking antifungal pills should have a doctor monitor their blood counts and liver and kidney function during treatment to watch for any harmful side effects.

References

Other Works Consulted

• Grossberg R (2015). Fungal diseases of the skin. In ET Bope et al., eds., Conn’s Current Therapy 2015, pp. 261–262. Philadelphia: Saunders.
• Habif TP, et al. (2011). Tinea of the body (tinea corporis) and face (tinea faciei). In Skin Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment, 3rd ed., pp. 275–279. Edinburgh: Saunders.
• Hall JC (2010). Dermatologic mycology. In JC Hall, ed., Sauer’s Manual of Skin Diseases, 10th ed., pp. 246–266. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Credits

Current as of:
July 2, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD – Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD – Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD – Family Medicine

Ringworm – NHS

Ringworm is a common fungal infection. It’s not caused by worms. You can usually buy medicine from a pharmacy to treat it.

Check if it’s ringworm

The main symptom of ringworm is a rash. It may look red, silver or darker than surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone.

The rash may be scaly, dry, swollen or itchy.

Ringworm can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp (tinea capitis) and groin (jock itch).

The rash is usually ring-shaped, but it may look different on your face, neck or scalp.

Credit:

Sometimes the rash grows, spreads, or there’s more than 1 rash.

Credit:

Ringworm on the face or scalp may also cause patchy hair loss.

Credit:

Other common fungal infections

A pharmacist can help with ringworm

Speak to a pharmacist first.

They can look at the rash and recommend the best antifungal medicine. This might be a cream, gel or spray depending on where the rash is.

You may need to use an antifungal medicine every day for up to 4 weeks. It’s important to use it for the right amount of time, even if the rash has gone away.

A pharmacist will tell you if they think you should see a GP.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

• ringworm has not improved after using antifungal medicine recommended by a pharmacist
• you have ringworm on your scalp – you’ll usually need prescription antifungal tablets and shampoo
• you have a weakened immune system – for example, from chemotherapy, steroids or diabetes

How ringworm is passed on

Ringworm is caused by a type of fungi.

It can be passed on through close contact with:

• an infected person or animal
• infected objects – such as bedsheets, combs or towels
• infected soil – although this is less common

Information:

It’s fine for your child to go to school or nursery once they have started treatment. Let your child’s teachers know they have ringworm.

How to stop ringworm spreading

Do

• start treatment as soon as possible

• wash towels and bedsheets regularly

• keep your skin clean and wash your hands after touching animals or soil

• regularly check your skin if you have been in contact with an infected person or animal

• take your pet to the vet if they might have ringworm (for example, patches of missing fur)

Don’t

• do not share towels, combs or bedsheets with someone who has ringworm

• do not scratch a ringworm rash – this could spread it to other parts of your body

Page last reviewed: 26 October 2020
Next review due: 26 October 2023

Ringworm: Treatment, symptoms, and pictures

Ringworm, or tinea, refers to several types of contagious fungal infections of the top layer of the skin, scalp, and nails.

It is called ringworm because the itchy, red rash has a ring-like appearance. However, ringworm is nothing to do with worms.

It can affect different parts of the body.

In this article, we will cover ringworm’s causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Fast facts on ringworm

Here are some key points about ringworm. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.

• Ringworm is nothing to do with worms.
• Ringworm is caused by a fungus that eats keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails.
• Children under 15 are particularly susceptible to ringworm.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of ringworm:

Scalp ringworm

The most common treatments for scalp ringworm are oral antifungals (tablets). However, the choice of medication will depend on the type of fungi involved.

Terbinafine (Lamisil): The side effects are normally mild and do not last long. They may include diarrhea and nausea. People with a history of liver disease should not take terbinafine.

Griseofulvin (Grisovin): The side effects, which usually go away fairly quickly, may include headache, indigestion, and nausea.

Anti-fungal shampoos: These help prevent the spread of ringworm and may speed up recovery, but they do not cure it. Various anti-fungal shampoos are available for purchase online.

Shaving a child’s head: There is no evidence that this reduces ringworm infection or accelerates recovery time.

Skin ringworm and groin infection

Most cases are treated with anti-fungal creams. Individuals should read instructions carefully – anti-fungal creams do not all have the same instructions. These can be purchased over-the-counter or online.

If symptoms are severe, or if they cover a large area of the body and do not respond to OTC medications, the doctor may prescribe a prescription-strength topical medication.

The doctor may prescribe an oral medication (taken by mouth). Oral medications can have some side effects, including stomach upset, rash, or abnormal liver function.

Caring for the skin during infection

Care for the skin properly can help speed recovery.

• Wash the skin gently
• Dry the skin thoroughly but gently.
• Pat the skin with a towel in tender areas, but do not rub.
• Make sure any folds and areas between the toes are dried thoroughly.
• Change sock or underwear more often than usual if they cover an infected area.
• Always treat the feet and groin at the same time, as infection often spreads from one area to another.
• Where possible, wear loose-fitting clothing and undergarments, such as boxers.

Symptoms

Different types of ringworm affect different parts of the body.

• Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis): This is most common in younger children, and occasionally it affects adults. It is more common in urban environments where people live closer together, giving the fungus more opportunities to spread.
• Body (skin) ringworm (tinea corporis): This can affect infants, children, and adults.
• Groin infections (tinea cruris): Also known as jock itch, this is more common among young men.
• Tinea pedis: Athlete’s foot is a common foot infection.
• Tinea unguium: Also known as onychomycosis, it is an infection of the nail bed.
• Ringworm in the beard area: This affects males who can grow facial hair, and it often results from contact with an animal that has ringworm.

Different types have different symptoms.

Scalp ringworm

• small patches of scaly skin appear on the scalp.
• patches may feel tender or painful and be inflamed.
• hair breaks away on or near the patches
• kerion, or large inflamed sores, form on the scalp, and they may ooze pus

The person may have a temperature and swollen glands or lymph nodes, but this is uncommon.

Body or skin ringworm

Symptoms include:

• a rash with a ring-like appearance
• the skin may be red and inflamed around the outside of the ring, but look fine in the middle
• merging rings
• rings feel slightly raised
• itchiness, especially under the rash.

Groin infection

There may be:

• itchiness, especially in and around the groin
• redness and a burning sensation in the affected area
• flaky and scaly skin on the inner thighs
• symptoms worsen when walking, running, or exercising
• tight clothing makes symptoms worse

Beard area

This can involve:

• redness, swelling, and pus-filled bumps
• hair loss, which usually resolves after treatment
• swollen glands
• raw, open skin and raised, soft, spongy patches that weep
• tiredness

Complications

Fungal infections rarely spread below the surface of the skin. The risk of any serious illness is very small. However, without treatment, ringworm can spread from one part of the body to another.

If the skin is broken, bacteria may enter and cause an infection.

People with HIV and other conditions that weaken the immune system are more likely to experience a spreading of ringworm. It is more difficult to get rid of the infection if the immune system is weak.

Pictures

Causes

Ringworm is caused by a type of fungus that eats keratin. These are called dermatophytes.

Dermatophytes attack the skin, scalp, hair, and nails because those are the only parts of the body with enough keratin to attract them.

Dermatophytes are microscopic spores that can survive on the surface of the skin for months. They can also survive in towels, combs, the soil, and other household objects. They are very resilient.

Dermatophyte spores spread in the following ways:

• human-to-human
• animal-to-human
• object-to-human

If a person or animal has the infection, they may deposit fungal spores on objects and surfaces when they touch them; anyone who touches those objects may become infected.

Children usually show symptoms when they become infected, but many adults do not. The older an individual is, the more likely their immune system will protect them. However, they may still be a carrier.

Risk factors

The following risk factors either increase the chances of developing ringworm or make the symptoms worse:

• being aged under 15 years
• having a weakened immune system
• using medications that lower the immune system
• living in a warm, humid climate
• being close to people or animals that are infected
• sharing clothing or towels with someone who has the infection
• having hyperhidrosis, a condition where the individual sweats more than usual
• playing contact sports, for instance, wrestling
• wearing tight clothing

Stages

The stages in which ringworm develops depend on the type of ringworm.

On the body, patches grow slowly in size, and more patches can appear on other parts of the body. The center of the patch may clear, leaving a ring. If there are several rings, they may merge.

Athletes foot tends to start between the toes before spreading to the bottom or sides of the feet, or both. The skin between the toes can then turn white and become soft.

On the nails, ringworm starts with a thickening of the skin under the nail, followed by a thickening and discoloration of the nails. Over time, the nails will lift, crumble, and disappear.

In the groin, the first sign is usually an itchy rash in the crease where the leg meets the body. This can spread to the groin, the inner thigh, the waist, and the buttocks.

Diagnosis

A doctor can normally diagnose ringworm or a groin infection after examining the affected area and asking the patient about their medical history and symptoms.

They may take a small scraping of the skin, which will not hurt, and examine it under a microscope to look for characteristics of fungi.

The doctor will assess whether the skin problem is being caused by some other disorder, such as psoriasis. Further testing is not usually needed unless symptoms are particularly severe.

If symptoms have not improved after treatment, the doctor may remove a small piece of infected skin and send it to the lab to be analyzed.

Prevention

The following tips may help prevent ringworm if it occurs in a household:

• If a pet is the source of the infection, it should be treated by a vet.
• Everyone should wash their hands regularly and thoroughly with soap.
• All household members should check themselves for signs of ringworm.
• People should not share combs, hairbrushes, clothing, bed linen, towels, or footwear.
• Anyone who has ringworm should not scratch affected areas as this increases the risk of spreading the infection.
• People should avoid walking around the house with bare feet.
• Clothes should be washed in hot water with fungicidal soap.

Keeping cool and wearing loose clothing may help reduce the risk.

Getting to the Root of Ringworm Causes and Prevention

I often use my daughter’s childhood ailments as blog topics, but this topic, a type of fungal infection, is something I have experienced personally. The infection is itchy and uncomfortable—Ringworm!

What is ringworm?

Did you know that ringworm is not actually caused by a worm? It’s a common fungal infection in school-age children. The reason it’s called ringworm is because the fungal infection forms a circle of red scaly skin—similar to how a worm looks when it touches end to end. As humans, we have many bacteria and fungi that live on our skin; some are useful and others can cause infections. The bacteria that cause ringworm are not the good kind. Continue reading to learn about signs, symptoms, diagnosis and prevention. The scientific name for ringworm is tinea. The condition can also be named for where it occurs on your child’s body.

• Ringworm on your child’s scalp—tinea capitus
• Ringworm on your child’s body—tinea corporis
• Ringworm on your child’s feet or hands—tinea pedis or manus

The condition is caused by skin fungi called dermatophytes, which live on top of skin and typically do not invade deep inside the skin. Additioanlly, dermatophytes do not live inside the mouth. A person can have the fungus on several areas of the body at the same time.

What are ringworm signs and symptoms?

• Itchy and unpleasant sensation on your child’s skin
• Raised, red patches that can blister or ooze
• Scaly, crusted rash (does not always need to be a circular shape)
• Sharply defined edges, sometimes darker around the edge​

Ringworm is very contagious and spreads easily from person to person. Other ways it can spread include:

• Pets, especially cats and dogs—your child can actually give your pet ringworm, and vice versa.
• Playing in soil.

What are the types of ringworm?

There are five types of ringworm:

1. Tinea barbea, which is found on the bearded area of the face in adolescent and adult males. It is also called “barber’s itch.” It is red and scaly with borders that are not clearly defined.
2. Tinea capitis, which is found on the scalp, usually in late childhood and teenagers. This will usually leave bald spots.
3. Tinea corporis, which is the rash on the skin that is often but not always ring-like. It can have an active reddened border that grows.
4. Tinea cruris, which is found in the groin area and is usually reddish-brown. This is also known as “jock itch.” It can mimic yeast infections, psoriasis or just chafing from tight clothing.
5. Tinea manus or pedis, which is found on the hands or feet and shows up often in the spaces between the fingers and toes. It can cause thickening, itchy, scaling, red and itchy skin. It can also be on the heels or soles of the feet. Nails can be thickened, discolored, brittle and crumbly.

How is ringworm diagnosed and treated?

If you feel your child has ringworm, contact their pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may involve an antifungal cream. If the rash does not heal with the cream, your child’s pediatrician may prescribe medicine to be taken by mouth. During treatment, be sure to keep the child clean and dry and wash all clothes, bed sheets and towels every day. Following the pediatrician’s treatment regimen is important because ringworm can get worse and make your child very sick with a widespread fungal infection. If your child’s ringworm is worsening, he or she will have these signs and symptoms:

• Fever
• Pus or drainage
• Rash is warm to the touch
• Red streaks
• Swelling
• Worsening and spreading redness

How can I prevent ringworm in my child?

Proper hand washing and skin care is important in preventing ringworm. Remind your child to wash their hand frequently with running water, soap and plenty of friction. Other ways to prevent ringworm:

• Encourage your child not to share clothing, towels, hair brushes and accessories, combs or other personal items with others.
• Encourage your child to wear sandals in locker rooms or around a pool.
• Wash your child’s sports clothing, towels and linen regularly.
• Keep your child’s skin clean and dry.
• If your child complains of itchiness, inspect their skin daily for signs of ringworm.
• Shampoo your child’s hair regularly.
• Don’t dress your child in tight clothing.
• Remind your child not to touch bald or itchy spots on pets.
• Take your pet to the veterinarian if they contract ringworm. This will help avoid your pet from spreading the condition to the rest of the family and other pets.

The information in this blog post can help protect you and your family from ringworm and promote skin health. Our skin is our biggest organ and our best protection!

Many thanks to Terry Renteria, RN, wound ostomy and continence nurse (WOCN) specialist at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles for her advisement of this RN Remedies blog post.

Learn more Health and Safety Tips

Related Content

Ringworm symptoms & treatments – Illnesses & conditions

Most tinea fungal infections, including ringworm, are easily treated by using antifungal creams, tablets or shampoo. You can also help to get rid of fungal infections and stop them from spreading by:

• washing areas of affected skin daily and drying thoroughly, paying particular attention to skin folds and between your toes
• in the case of a groin/foot infection, changing your underwear/socks daily, because fungi can persist in flakes of skin
• with a scalp infection, not sharing combs, hairbrushes or hats
• washing clothes, towels and bed linen frequently
• wearing loose-fitting clothes, preferably made of cotton or other natural materials

Read more about preventing ringworm.

Ringworm, groin infections and athlete’s foot

Most cases of ringworm, groin infections and athlete’s foot can be treated using an over-the-counter antifungal cream, gel or spray. There are lots of different types, so ask your pharmacist to help you choose the right one for you. You usually apply antifungal creams, gels and sprays daily to the affected areas of skin for two weeks. The cream, gel or spray should be applied over the rash and to one inch of skin beyond the edge of the rash. Read the manufacturer’s instructions first. You may be advised to use the treatment for a further two weeks, to reduce the risk of re-infection. See your GP if your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of treatment, because you may need to take antifungal tablets. Both terbinafine and griseofulvin tablets can be used to treat ringworm infections, as well as another antifungal medicine called itraconazole (see below).

Treat groin and feet together

Groin infections can sometimes occur at the same time as athlete’s foot. It’s vital to treat both infections at the same time to avoid being re-infected with either condition.

Fungal scalp infections

Scalp infections are usually treated using antifungal tablets, often alongside an antifungal shampoo. There are two main types of antifungal tablet:

The antifungal medicine that your GP prescribes will depend on the type of fungi causing the infection.

Terbinafine tablets

Most people with fungal scalp infections are prescribed terbinafine tablets to take once a day for four weeks. It’s an effective treatment for most cases. Side effects of terbinafine can include:

These side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Some people have also reported that terbinafine temporarily affected their sense of taste.

Terbinafine is not suitable for people with a history of liver disease or lupus (where the immune system attacks healthy tissue).

Griseofulvin

Griseofulvin is a type of antifungal medicine that prevents fungi from growing and multiplying. It’s available in the form of a spray and is usually taken daily for 8-10 weeks. Side effects of griseofulvin can include: 

However, these side effects should improve as your body gets used to the medicine. Griseofulvin can cause birth defects, so it shouldn’t be taken during pregnancy, or if you intend to become pregnant soon after stopping treatment. Men shouldn’t father a child within six months of stopping treatment. Griseofulvin is also not suitable for women who are breastfeeding, and those with severe liver disease or lupus. Griseofulvin can interfere with both the combined contraceptive pill and the progestogen-only pill, so women need to use an alternative barrier form of contraception, such as a condom, while taking it. Griseofulvin may also affect your ability to drive and can enhance the effects of alcohol.

Antifungal shampoo

Antifungal shampoo cannot cure scalp infections, but it can help to prevent the infection spreading and may speed up recovery. Antifungal shampoos, such as selenium sulphide and ketoconazole shampoo, are available from your pharmacist. Ideally, antifungal shampoo should be used twice a week during the first two weeks of treatment. There is no evidence that shaving a child’s head will reduce the risk of an infection or speed up recovery.

Itraconazole

Itraconazole is usually prescribed in the form of capsules for 7 or 15 days. It is not recommended for use in children, elderly people or those with severe liver disease. Side effects of itraconazole can include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• indigestion
• diarrhoea
• headache

Read about how to stop ringworm spreading or coming back.

Fungal nail infections

Fungal nail infections can be treated with antifungal nail paint, but it also often requires antifungal tablets. These tend to work better than nail paints, although they can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea and diarrhoea. Read more about treating fungal nail infections.

Expert Advice on How to Get Rid of Ringworm

I’ve Got an Itchy, Red Rash! Is It Ringworm?

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and while its primary function is to protect your body from infection, it can sometimes become infected itself. Knowing the difference between various skin infections can help you determine your best course of treatment and whether medical attention is necessary.

If you or a family member develops an itchy, red rash, it could be a sign of dermatophytosis — more commonly known as ringworm.

Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that can infect up to 20% of the U.S. population at any given time. It’s also usually localized to a particular area of the body, and depending on where it originates, determines what it’s called.

Curious about the different types of ringworm? Here’s a complete list, including what you should look for and how to get rid of an infection.

There are 7 Common Types of Ringworm

1. Tinea Corporis

Body Part Affected: Torso, arms or legs

Signs and Symptoms:

• Classic round spots typical of ringworm that can have a more pronounced outer border
• Starts with a red, itchy and scaly area of skin that is slightly raised
• A kerion or blister-like lesion can appear

Treatment: Generally treated with nonprescription antifungal cream, lotion or powder for two to four weeks.

2. Tinea Pedis, or Athlete’s Foot

Body Part Affected: Feet

Signs and Symptoms:

• Round, dry patches on the top of the foot
• Clusters of blisters on the side of the foot
• Moist, peeling and irritable skin between the toes
• Entire sole, heel and sides of the foot may become dry but not inflamed

Treatment: Generally treated with nonprescription antifungal cream, lotion or powder for two to four weeks.

3. Tinea Unguium, or Onychomycosis

Body Part Affected: Fingernails or toenails

Signs and Symptoms:

• White or yellow streaks on the fingernails or toenails
• Crumbly nail that may lift up easily
• Flaky white patches on the top of the nail plate

Treatment: Generally treated with prescription antifungal medication taken by mouth for several months; a topical  medical nail lacquer might also be suggested. 

4. Tinea Cruris, or Jock Itch

Body Part Affected: Groin

Signs and Symptoms:

• Reddish-brown rash that starts in the folds of the groin and can spread to one or both thighs or the buttocks

Treatment: Generally treated with nonprescription antifungal cream, lotion or powder for two to four weeks.

5. Tinea Barbae

Body Part Affected: Facial hair areas

Signs and Symptoms:

• Red, lumpy blisters
• Crusting around the beard or moustache area that can be itchy
• Facial hair is easily pulled out

Treatment: Generally treated with prescription antifungal medication taken by mouth for one to three months.

6. Tinea Capitis

Body Part Affected: Scalp

Signs and Symptoms:

• Round, itchy and scaly spots
• Dry, scaly skin; similar to dandruff
• Bald spots from hair loss
• A kerion or blister-like lesion can appear

Treatment: Generally treated with prescription antifungal medication taken by mouth for one to three months; topical antifungal shampoo might also be suggested to prevent spreading of scalp ringworm.

7. Tinea Faciei

Body Part Affected: Face (excluding the facial hair and scalp areas)

Signs and Symptoms:

• Round or oval itchy spots on the cheeks
• Edges of the spots may be raised
• Spots may include bumps, blisters or scabs

Treatment: Generally treated with nonprescription antifungal cream, lotion or powder for two to four weeks.

What Causes Ringworm?

Despite what the name may suggest, ringworm isn’t actually caused by parasitic worms. It’s the result of an infection from one of about 40 kinds of dermatophytes — or groups of fungi.

The 3 most typical are:

1. Trichophyton
2. Microsporum
3. Epidermophyton

Ringworm fungi are believed to live as spores in soil for extended periods. When these mold-like parasites come in contact with a human (or animal) body, they choose to inhabit the cells on the outer layer of the skin.

So, how do you become infected? Here are the 4 methods for contracting ringworm:

• Person-to-person contact – The most common way to contract ringworm is through contact with another person who is infected. Because symptoms don’t develop until four to fourteen days after initial exposure, you or a family member could be in contact with someone who doesn’t know they’re infected.
• Animal-to-person contact – Ringworm can also spread by touching an animal with ringworm. Household pets like cats and dogs can contract ringworm and so can farm animals.
• Object-to-person contact – You can also get ringworm by coming in contact with items or surfaces an infected person or animal has also had contact with. Such objects include clothes, towels, bedding or brushes.
• Soil-to-person contact – It is rare, but sometimes ringworm can spread through contact with infected soil. This would most likely happen only from extended contact with soil that’s highly infected.

There are also some conditions that put you at higher risk for getting ringworm. Since fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, you’re more likely to contract an infection if you live in a warm climate, or frequent locker rooms or swimming pools.

You can also get ringworm through contact sports that involve skin-to-skin contact and through wearing tight or restrictive clothing.

While ringworm doesn’t usually spread below the surface of the skin, people who are immunocompromised — carriers of infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, for example — may find it more difficult to get rid of an infection.

How Do I Get Rid of Ringworm?

Oral and topical medications are your best bet for clearing ringworm fast. However, fungal diseases are highly contagious, so early intervention is critical to preventing it from spreading to other areas of your body or infecting others.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Typically, it takes two to four weeks for a skin infection to clear up. Infections of the scalp, facial hair area and nails, however, tend to last for a few months. If you’ve begun an antifungal treatment and it’s not better within two weeks, or your infection has spread to other body parts, visit your doctor or an urgent care center.

Healthcare professionals, like those at GoHealth Urgent Care, can examine your infected area(s). Before giving you a diagnosis, the doctor may send a skin sample to the lab to confirm it’s a fungus that causes ringworm of the body.

If deemed necessary, your provider might give you a prescription for a stronger medication.

Want to find a GoHealth Urgent Care location in your neighborhood? Search our handy location widget below.

Can I Prevent Ringworm from Spreading?

Besides taking fungal medicine for as long as recommended, or trying some home remedies for ringworm, there are other tips that can help you receive the best results from treatment and spare others for getting your infection.

• Wash your hands after touching any part of your body with ringworm. This can prevent the spread of infection to other areas.
• Keep all infected areas clean and dry. When showering, wash affected areas and dry them with a clean towel. Use a different towel for other areas of your body. Since fungi love moist environments, this is particularly important after a workout.
• Treat all areas infected. If your ringworm has spread to other areas, it’s important to use cream, lotion, powder and/or oral medicine as directed on all infected body parts. For example, if you’re suffering from both jock itch and athlete’s foot, use antifungal lotions and powders for both infections.
• Thoroughly clean infected items. Ringworm can survive for a long time, so to avoid reinfecting yourself or someone else, wash your clothes, shoes (with athlete’s foot), towels, bedding, etc. Wear clothes, such as socks or shirts, only once if you wore them the day before.
• Use flip flops or waterproof shoes in public showers, pool areas and locker rooms. Don’t go barefoot if you have athlete’s foot because you could easily spread the infection to others.

Other Skin Conditions

Just because you have an itchy, red rash doesn’t necessarily mean it’s ringworm. There are several reasons for skin irritation besides a fungal infection, such as allergens, chemicals, drugs, viruses and temperature.

Many skin conditions may present like ringworm but are in fact “ringworm look-alike.” Nummular eczema, for example, forms as a coin-shaped patch of scaly, dry skin on your torso, arms, legs or hands. While the cause of this form of eczema is unknown, it can result from dry skin in the winter, poor blood flow, inflammation, metal materials and medications like topical antibiotic creams.

Psoriasis can also look-alike ringworm, with dry, cracked skin that may bleed. It ranges from a few spots to major eruptions of red patches of skin that cover large areas, from your feet and nails to your torso and scalp.

The cause for psoriasis is also not fully understood, but it’s thought to be related to an immune system deficiency. Certain triggers – strep throat, smoking or heavy alcohol consumption, vitamin D deficiency, stress and medications like lithium – can start or worsen the symptoms.

Psoriasis can also put you at higher risk for developing other diseases like psoriatic arthritis, obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Actinic keratosis or solar keratosis, are scaly patches of skin caused by high-exposure to the sun. They can be an early warning sign of skin cancer and doctors recommend early treatment to prevent the development of squamous cell skin cancer.

Other skin conditions that are similar to ringworm include granuloma, pityriasis rosea, impetigo, cellulitis and seborrhea.

Ringworm Essentials 

The unfortunate thing about ringworm is that it’s very contagious. The good thing is that it’s treatable. Regardless of what type of ringworm infection you or your family member has, by taking the appropriate antifungal medication, you can get rid of it quickly.

In addition, there are several home remedies and lifestyle choices you can make to prevent fungi from spreading to your other body parts or other people and pets you come in contact with. Know that what you might think are unsightly spots or temporary hair loss from ringworm will resolve.

If you’re treating what you think is ringworm and it doesn’t seem to get any better, the doctors at any of our urgent care centers can perform an easy lab test to ensure your condition is in fact ringworm. With time, you’ll be fungus free! 

Use the handy locator widget below to find a GoHealth Urgent Care nearest you!

GoHealth Urgent Care partners with these regional healthcare providers:

CHECK-IN ONLINE:

ARKANSASCALIFORNIA – BAY AREACONNECTICUTDELAWAREMISSOURI – SPRINGFIELDMISSOURI – ST. LOUISNEW YORKNORTH CAROLINAOKLAHOMAOREGON/WASHINGTONGo

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

Ringworm of the body (tin ee uh COR por is) is an infection of the skin caused by a fungus (a plant which is too small to see). Ringworm is not caused by a worm.

The infection starts as a rash with tiny red pimples. The pimples slowly spread and form a round or oval ring, typically ½ to 1 inch (12 to 25 mm) in size. The edges of the area are red, raised or scaly. After the ring has formed, the skin inside the rash may look pink or almost normal. The rash usually appears in only a few places on the skin but it may occur anywhere on the body and may itch. Ringworm rarely causes serious problems.

Ringworm is contagious. It can spread to humans from puppies, kittens and pet rodents. It can also spread from people to people when someone touches the rash or handles something that has touched it.

Diagnosis

The doctor will diagnose ringworm based on the child’s health history and by looking at the rash. A few scales from the infected area may be scraped and sent to the lab for more testing.

Treatment

A single patch of ringworm can be treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream. The cream will usually contain miconazole, ketoconazole or clotrimazole.

• Read the medicine’s label or ask your doctor or pharmacist to know if the cream you choose is safe for children.
• Ask how often it should be applied and for how many days.
• If there are many patchy areas, the doctor may prescribe a stronger medicine.

Ringworm usually goes away within 4 weeks of treatment.

How to Put on the Antifungal Cream

1. Wash and dry your hands. 
2. Wash the rash with soap and water in the bathtub, bathroom sink or pan. Do not use the kitchen sink to wash the rash.
3. Dry the rash completely with a paper towel or clean cloth towel. Do not touch this towel to healthy skin. (A cloth towel must be washed before it is used again.)
4. Apply a thin layer of cream just past the outside edges of the rash.
5. Spread the cream, beginning from the outside area first, then move toward the center of the rash (Picture 1).
6. Do not cover the ringworm with a bandage.
7. Wash and dry your hands well.

How to Prevent Ringworm

The fungus grows well on warm, dark, moist areas of the body. To prevent ringworm from spreading to others:

• Keep the skin clean and dry. Dry the skin well after washing or bathing. 
• Wash hands well and right away if a ringworm rash is touched.
• Wear clean clothes, socks and underwear every day and do not share clothes or personal items (brushes, combs, barrettes) with others (Picture 2).
• Wash and dry clothing and towels that have come in contact with the rash using the hottest settings allowed on the care labels.
• Wash the bathtub, bathroom sink or pan well after each use.

Other Advice

• Wear shoes in locker rooms and public showers.
• Shower right away after all contact sports like wrestling and football.
• Keep fingernails short and clean.
• Wash hands after playing with pets. Check pets for ringworm and get them treated if necessary.
• Your child can return to daycare or school after treatment has begun.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your child’s doctor if the rash:

• Gets worse and shows signs of infection (pus, swelling or discharge)
• Does not seem to be healing after 2 weeks
• Has not healed completely after 4 weeks

Ringworm (Tinea Corporis) (PDF)

HH-I-143 1/91, Revised 10/17 Copyright 1991, Nationwide Children’s Hospital

90,000 Ringworm (microsporia) in children and adults: treatment, pathogens, transmission routes

Ringworm (microsporia) is a disease that manifests itself as a fungal infection of the skin, nail plates and hair follicles. The pathogen is a mold of the genus Microsporum. Its colonies are formed in keratinized substrates. Microsporia remains a relatively common disease – dermatologists detect 60-75 cases for every one hundred thousand residents of Moscow.Pathology has a pronounced seasonality. The peak incidence occurs in late summer and early autumn – the period of breeding in cats and other animals.

Ways of infection

The causative agent of microsporia enters the body when a healthy person comes into contact with a carrier of the disease. An alternative way is to interact with objects covered with fungal spores. Ringworm is most often detected in children 5-10 years old; in boys, microsporia is diagnosed five times more often than in girls.Pathology almost does not affect adults due to the presence of organic acids in the structure of their hair, which inhibit the growth of the mycelium of the fungus.

The reasons for the development of ringworm are microtrauma of the skin, its dryness. Spores end up in cracks, scratches, or exposed calluses. Healthy skin becomes an insurmountable barrier to fungus. The causative agent does not survive contact with personal hygiene products – thorough washing of hands after contact with carriers of spores excludes the possibility of infection.

The risk group includes people who regularly come into contact with the land and wild animals. The active growth of the fungus is facilitated by disturbances in the work of the sebaceous glands with changes in the chemical composition of their secretion. Microsporum spores are able to survive for three months in the open field.

Symptoms of pathology

Ringworm symptoms appear 4 to 6 weeks after a patient is infected. A red spot appears on a smooth area of ​​the skin of a child or adult.It rises above the surface and has smooth boundaries. Over time, the size of the focus increases. The surface is covered with nodules, blisters and scabs. The spots turn into rings that can intersect or merge with each other. The diameter of the formations on the skin ranges from 5 to 30 millimeters.

Ringworm symptoms include an acute inflammatory reaction. It often develops in children and girls. The lesions begin to peel off intensively.Patients suffering from dermatitis do not immediately show symptoms of microsporia. The sites of active growth of fungi can look like inflammatory skin lesions.

A common manifestation of ringworm in a child is damage to the scalp. Patients aged 5-12 years suffer from this symptom. Older children experience a change in the chemical composition of sebum. Its elements become dangerous for the microsporia pathogen.

The suppurative type of ringworm is characterized by the appearance of soft nodules on the patient’s skin.The nodes are dotted with numerous abscesses. When they are squeezed, purulent contents are separated.

Do you have symptoms of ringworm?

Only a doctor can accurately diagnose the disease.
Do not postpone the consultation – call by phone

+7 (495) 775-73-60

Diagnostic measures

Ringworm is diagnosed and treated by a dermatologist. The doctor examines the patient and identifies the typical manifestations of microsporia.Examination of skin scrapings under a microscope reveals fungal mycelium and changes in the structure of hair and skin. Differential diagnosis makes it possible to exclude trichophytosis from the patient’s history, which has similar manifestations during microscopy of the patient’s biomaterials.

Sowing on microflora is a more informative diagnostic technique. Laboratory staff determine the type and genus of fungi. Based on the laboratory report, the dermatologist selects drugs that will cure the patient.

The luminescent study makes it possible to identify pathological foci on the skin of the patient and those living with him. This diagnostic method is based on the glow of the mycelium of the fungus in green under the influence of a gas-discharge light source.

Treatment

The combination of drugs prescribed to the patient depends on the severity of damage to the skin, nail plates and hair follicles. Antifungal therapy may be local or general.In the first case, a child or an adult needs to use creams and ointments that suppress the activity of the microsporia pathogen. Drugs in this group are not recommended for girls during pregnancy and lactation. Topical spray formulations are effective in treating large ringworm lesions. Modern formulations do not leave stains on the skin and are not absorbed into the fabric of clothing.

Severe inflammatory response is treated with a combination of antifungal and hormonal drugs.Patients will have to apply applications with ointments to the affected areas. After this, the skin is treated with iodine solutions. The schedule for oral administration of tablets is formed by a dermatologist based on the clinical picture of the pathology.

Joining the microsporia of a secondary infection involves the use of drugs based on betamethasone, gentamicin or clotrimazole.

Preventive measures

Ringworm prevention is based on regular medical examinations of children attending preschool educational institutions. Parents should talk to their kids about the inadmissibility of contact with stray animals. Compliance with the rules of personal hygiene by patients of all age groups is becoming an important preventive measure.

When buying pets, you must visit your veterinarian. The doctor will examine the cat or dog and give advice on how to fix any pet health problems. Following the advice of your veterinarian will prevent an outbreak of microscopy within the family.

Questions and Answers

Is re-infection with microsporia possible?

Yes.A recovered patient may re-contract microsporia from carriers or contact with spore-covered objects. This scenario can be avoided by simultaneous treatment of all cohabitants (children and parents).

How can pet owners protect themselves from microsporia infection?

Cats and dogs should be brought in regularly for veterinary examinations. The risk group includes animals that are taken out of the city. Contact with other cats and dogs can turn the pet into a carrier of spores of the microsporia pathogen. Animals must be washed periodically using special products.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection of human skin, nails and hair. The causative agents of this type of lichen are diaphoretic fungi Microsporum and Trichophyton . This is the most studied type of lichen, which in medicine has 2 main names Trichophytosis and Microsporia, depending on the fungus that caused ringworm in humans.Its treatment mainly consists of local therapy and oral administration of antifungal drugs in tablets. Since this is a fungal skin disease, in addition to the popular name – ringworm – doctors also use such terms – Dermatomycosis, Dermatophytosis, Dermatophytosis, as well as Trichophytosis and Microsporia. The difference between trichophytosis and microsporia is that the latter is transmitted to humans from domestic animals, most often from cats, and trichophytosis parasitizes only on the human body.
Risk factors and routes of infection with ringworm. The main route of infection is contact-household, through direct contact with a sick person or animal: Children from 4 to 15 years old are most susceptible to ringworm infection, microsporia is especially easily transmitted by contact with infected animals. Both trichophytosis and microsporia can be transmitted from a sick person to a healthy contact-household route, that is, through household items, clothes, combs, linen. Even in a hairdresser, if you don’t disinfect your clipping and shaving tools, you can get ringworm.On contact with the affected skin of the patient, the transmission of lichen is also possible. However, in addition to getting the pathogen on the skin, in order for infection and reproduction of fungi on the skin, nails and scalp of a healthy person to occur, certain provoking conditions are necessary, since with a strong immune system and no damage to the skin, the risk of developing the disease is minimal.
Subject to the rules of personal hygiene, all pathogenic fungi, when in contact with the skin, are simply washed off after a shower and other hygienic procedures.If there is a patient with ringworm in your environment, you should be very careful, neat, follow the rules of personal hygiene, do not use combs and other common household items that come into contact with the patient’s skin. Risk factors for ringworm include the following: Skin maceration – softening of the skin with prolonged contact with water. Violation of the integrity of the skin – trauma, abrasions, scratches, burns, etc. Low immunity and the presence of other skin diseases.Constant stress, depression is the strongest factor leading to a decrease in the body’s defenses.
What does ringworm look like and its differential diagnosis. To establish the diagnosis of ringworm, in addition to the initial examination by a dermatologist, for a more accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to do a bacteriological examination of the scraping taken from the focus of inflammation, while the hemp of hair and skin scales are examined for the presence of fungi. If it is ringworm, then fungal spores are found.If ringworm is localized on the scalp, then it should be differentiated from baldness and favus (another type of fungal skin lesions). If ringworm is on the body, then it should be distinguished from eczema and psoriasis. In the chronic course of the disease, ringworm is differentiated from candidiasis, acne, psoriasis, eczema of the nails and lichen planus. With deep ringworm in humans, symptoms should be differentiated from staphylococcal sycosis, iodine and bromoderma, ostiofolliculitis and phlegmon.
Symptoms, signs of ringworm. How does ringworm manifest and how is it treated? This type of lichen can affect almost any part of the body, and doctors subdivide the localization of ringworm according to the following areas: skin of the hands, feet, trunk of the feet, nails of the feet and hands, inguinal folds and armpits, scalp skin of the head, hands, palms, skin of the face Depending from the location of the lichen, the depth of the skin lesion, and the state of the immune system, which cannot cope with ringworm, the symptoms and signs of the disease may differ. Therefore, it is customary to classify all types of fungal disease as follows:

• Superficial lichen of the scalp.

Ringworm infection in children usually occurs either from sick adults or from pets. And if such lichen is not cured in childhood, it will continue chronically up to 13-15 years – the period of puberty. In boys at this age, self-healing most often occurs and lichen does not return anymore, but in girls, without adequate treatment, it can drag on and acquire a chronic form.
Ringworm head symptoms:
– When the hairy part of the head is affected by ringworm in a person, round foci are first formed, in which hair thinning is observed, there may be several, or maybe just a single area. In the area of ​​the lichen lesion, the skin begins to peel off, forming gray or whitish small scales that can be mistaken for dandruff. As the disease progresses, the hair begins to break off, as if this area was cut 1-2 mm from the scalp.This may be accompanied by slight reddening of the skin. Small bubbles form along the edges of the affected area, which are further transformed into yellowish crusts. In size, the areas affected by lichen can be quite large, 3-10 cm in diameter and even more. Superficial lichen of this type does not lead to inflammation, and only a few patients may experience mild itching. However, such a lichen causes considerable psychological discomfort, since the aesthetic appearance of the head and hairline deteriorates significantly.

• Superficial ringworm on smooth skin.

– On smooth skin without hair, ringworm, in terms of its primary symptoms, can be confused with lichen rosacea, the treatment of which is completely different. The difference between ringworm is that it can affect any part of the body, and pink does not exist on the face, hands, on the soles of the feet, also pink lichen usually does not last more than 2 months, and ringworm, microsporia without treatment can last for years with periodic relapses.A favorite localization of ringworm on smooth skin is the face and neck, and it can also be on the legs and body. A distinctive feature of this lichen is the clear contours of the spots, along the edges of which, as it were, a roller of bright color is formed, consisting of bubbles and pink nodes. In the center of the patch, the skin is usually lighter in color with gray scales. With the progression of the disease, the foci increase in size. This shingle is usually accompanied by itching.

• Chronic ringworm.

In adults, chronic ringworm occurs only in women who have not had a superficial ringworm treatment during childhood. It usually occurs when a woman has dysfunctions of the thyroid gland, ovaries, with a lack of vitamins and a general weakening of the immune system. The symptoms of chronic ringworm in women are as follows:
– It can be both on the scalp and on smooth skin and nails. Its favorite localization on the head is the back of the head and temples.If the lesion is localized on the hairy part of the skin, then the hair breaks down to the very root, and the resulting spot is called a black point, while the lesion is usually quite small up to 1 cm, a scaly scar, without inflammatory symptoms. If lichen is localized on smooth skin, then, as a rule, these are elbows, palms, thighs and buttocks. The contours of the spots become indistinct, their size can be very significant, the color varies from pink to bluish, and peeling of the skin is also characteristic. With any type of chronic lichen, besides itching and an external non-aesthetic appearance, lichen does not manifest itself anymore.When the nails are damaged, they become either gray or cloudy, dull, the edges quickly crumble, jags appear, and the nail can become either too thick or very thin.

• Deep ringworm: infiltrative-suppurative.

– This type of ringworm is transmitted to humans only from animals, the pathogens of which multiply in human hair follicles. Usually, with deep ringworm in a person, the symptoms are joined by an increase and soreness of the lymph nodes, fever, allergic rashes and general malaise.On average, the inflammatory process lasts 2-3 months. A sign of deep ringworm on the scalp is the formation of large bright red plaques 5-10 cm, they are uneven, bumpy, resembling tumor growths. This is due to purulent inflammation of the follicles, edema of the skin, so the plaques rise significantly above the scalp. This is a very painful type of ringworm, moreover, when the follicles are opened, purulent fluid is released. As the inflammatory process subsides, loose brown crusts form in the center of the plaques.In men, lichen deep can be located not only on the scalp, but also affect the mustache and beard.
Treatment of ringworm in humans. In the treatment of ringworm in humans, the basis of therapy is the fight against the fungus that caused dermatomycosis. Treatment is prescribed only by a dermatologist, who combines local treatment with lichen ointments – antifungal creams, sprays, shampoos with taking antifungal drugs inside. For local treatment, the doctor may recommend various ointments, creams, shampoos containing Clotrimazole, Ketoconazole, Mikoseptin, Terbinafine, Micoconazole.(Topical antifungal agents – creams, sprays, gels) Ringworm of smooth skin responds better to treatment with Terbinafine and Tolnaftate. For the treatment of lichen in the morning, a 5% iodine solution is usually used. And in the evening, as a rule, sulfur-salicylic or sulfur-digester ointment is prescribed, treatment with pure salicylic acid 3% is also possible. The doctor can write a prescription for the manufacture of Vidal milk in the prescription department of the pharmacy – alcohol, camphor, salicylic acid, lotion with sulfur, boric acid, glycerin.Or Lassar pastes – petroleum jelly, starch, salicylic acid, zinc oxide. For systemic treatment for dermatomycosis, Griseofulvin is used, it is a natural antimycotic that has a narrow spectrum of action, namely, it is active against dermatomycete fungi, Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epydermophyton, Achorionum.
For the treatment of chronic ringworm, in addition to antifungal agents, both local and oral (Griseofulvin), vitamin therapy, immunomodulators, drugs that strengthen blood vessels and improve microcirculation are also indicated.After the end of treatment for ringworm, scraping is again taken for bacterial analysis from the surface of the skin in places where the lichen used to be, it is taken 3 times – immediately after the end of treatment, after a week and after 2-3 months. Only if all 3 tests are negative is ringworm considered cured. If the results are positive, then the course of treatment should be reviewed and a different regimen should be prescribed.

How to treat ringworm at home

How to treat ringworm?

Microsporia or ringworm is a disease caused by a fungus from the genus Microsporum.The disease manifests itself on the skin and hair, sometimes eyelashes and nails are affected. Fungal infections that cause the disease “love” the skin, which is why they are called dermatophytes.

Areas affected by shingles are located under the hair on the scalp. These are round lesions in which the hair breaks off at a height of 5 mm and looks like cut. The lesions come in different sizes, even from the palm of your hand. People suffering from shingles on the body note the presence of red spots, the outline of which resembles a raised roller.The stain may peel off, itch.

Children are most susceptible to infection, as they often play with street animals. Children’s skin is more susceptible to infections. Doctors note an outbreak of diseases in children in the summer and early fall. In adults, ringworm disease is second only to foot fungus. Young women are more likely to get sick.

Causes of lichen

Ringworm can become infected after contact with sick animals and people. Most often, stray animals become carriers of the infection.From a sick person, lichen can be transmitted by sharing combs, manicure sets, bedding, towels, washcloths. People with weak immunity who have scratches and abrasions on their skin are at greater risk of infection.

If there is a suspicion of dermatomycosis and other skin diseases, you need to contact a dermatologist or infectious disease specialist. In order to properly prescribe a medicine for ringworm, the doctor will diagnose. The first is to inspect the affected areas under the light of a special lamp.If it is trichophytosis, the attending physician will see how the skin and hair will turn green under the influence of the lamp. A scraping can be taken from the affected area for laboratory analysis.

It is difficult to protect yourself from ringworm – fungal spores on the ground can remain viable for about 3 months. You can get infected if pieces of wool, skin, hair with a fungus get on the skin. As soon as it gets on the skin, it begins to multiply and grow inside the hair follicles. The spores of the fungus destroy the hair structure, causing it to break off.Around the piece of hair, the fungus forms what looks like a white sheath. As a result, ringworm can be seen with the naked eye.

How is ringworm treated?

Treatment for ringworm is long-term – up to about 6 weeks. The exact duration of therapy depends on the complexity of the course of the disease and compliance with the doctor’s recommendations. If you start dermatomycosis, it will become chronic and the disease will regularly manifest itself in new areas of the body. There were rare cases when a person did not have to treat ringworm – it disappeared on its own. Usually such cases are observed in adolescents during puberty. Then the composition of the skin secretion changes, it contains undicylenic acid, which kills fungi.

In order to correctly prescribe a medicine that kills dermatomycosis, the doctor specifies the diagnosis. As mentioned above, under the light of Wood’s lamp, the foci of the Microsporum fungus glow green. The scraping is sent to the laboratory for sowing, if within 3 days Microsporum colonies are found there, the diagnosis is made – ringworm.

If a small focus of the disease in the singular is observed on the patient’s body, local preparations are enough.More often, this mild form appears on smooth skin. The doctor may prescribe an antifungal ointment, iodine treatment. If there are several foci of the fungus, dermatomycosis is treated in a clinic where tablets and ointments are prescribed, solutions from the fungus in the complex.

What ointments help with ringworm?

As with other diseases, self-medication can only aggravate the course of the disease. Therefore, only a doctor can tell you how to treat ringworm, how to use the medicine and for how long.Pharmacies offer a selection of ointments, creams and gels for lichen. Ointments are thick, penetrate deeply into the skin and are stronger than other local remedies.

The ointment is often combined with iodine. For example, in the morning, lesions are smeared with iodine, it dries the skin, has a detrimental effect on bacteria and fungi. In the evening, a medicinal ointment is applied to the lichen foci.

Most popular ointments:

• Sulfur. Fights fungi and pathogenic microorganisms.Dries pustules well, accelerates wound healing. It is applied once a day;
• Salicylic. Kills fungi and relieves inflammation. After treating the area with ointment, a sterile napkin is placed on top of it. Do not apply the ointment on the face;
• Sulfur-tar. With careful movements, it is applied to the lesions and the skin around them. The ointment has disinfecting properties and has a detrimental effect on fungi. If there is swelling in the affected area, a bandage is applied over the ointment;
• Lamisil.This is a cream that is able to stop the growth of fungi and destroy it. After 5 days from the start of treatment, significant improvements are noticeable, but the full course is about 6 weeks;
• Mycospore. This ointment is capable of destroying fungi at the cellular level. Gently rubbed into the skin for 6 weeks.

Before applying the ointment, you can clean the skin with disinfectant solutions with furacilin, potassium permanganate, rivanol. All of the above ointments are effective, a specific drug will be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.There are creams that contain hormones. They are able to quickly relieve redness and itching, but can create a favorable environment for the development of fungi. Therefore, you should not use hormonal creams on your own.

What gels help with ringworm?

Compared to ointments, gels are absorbed faster, do not leave marks and do not stain clothes, and do not emit a strong odor. Ringworm gels contain a concentration of drugs that can destroy dermatophytes. Popular gels:

• Exifin.Twice a day, it is applied to areas affected by the fungus, gently rubbed in. Course – 4 weeks;
• Mikogel-KMP. It is able to kill not only fungi, but also bacteria by acting on the cell membrane of microorganisms. The gel is applied twice a day in a thin layer, no need to rub. The course is 4 weeks.

Before applying the gel, the affected area is cleaned of the stratum corneum. To do this, apply lactic-salicylic-resorcinol collodion. Thanks to its effect, the top layer of the skin softens, which is then removed with the blunt side of the scalpel.If the lichen has struck the scalp, then the hair is removed with tweezers, then the skin is disinfected with iodine. If this procedure is neglected, the fungus will remain in the hair and cause a relapse of the disease.

Solutions for ringworm

Special solutions are prescribed for the treatment of lichen on the head, since they are able to be absorbed well and do not contaminate the hair. The solutions can also be applied to smooth skin before applying the medicated ointment. Popular solutions:

• Iodotsirin.Contains glycerin and iodine. Helps to flake off scales and heal wounds. The solution is impregnated with a napkin, applied to the affected area for 20 minutes;
• Vokadin. Contains iodine. Able to kill fungi and bacteria. The course is up to 6 weeks.
• Nitrofungin. It is considered a fairly effective remedy for the fungus. A cotton swab is moistened in a solution and the foci of the disease are blotted with it 2-3 times a day. This is repeated until the symptoms are completely gone. If the fungus also affects the hair, in parallel with the solutions, tablets are prescribed inside.

Tablets for ringworm

The doctor prescribes capsules and tablets for depriving if the patient has several foci of the disease and in situations where the hair is affected by the fungus. Medications taken by mouth destroy fungi throughout the body. This will speed up the healing process and prevent relapses. Popular tablets:

• Orungal. Acts against dermatophytes by destroying their membranes. It is taken daily at 100 mg. Course – 15 days;
• Griseowulfin.Aimed at preventing the growth of fungal colonies. Take 8 tablets per day with meals, along with 1 tsp. sunflower oil. The course lasts until the first negative analysis, then the doctor reduces the dosage;
• Lamisil. Has a detrimental effect on the fungus. It is prescribed 1-2 times a day. The course is 6 weeks.

It is important to take into account that you cannot prescribe such drugs yourself. Each has indications for use and side effects. The doctor will be able to control the effectiveness of therapy using the same lamp with which the lichen was diagnosed.

Folk remedies for lichen

There are a large number of remedies in traditional medicine recipes, but not all of them are equally effective. Therefore, more often folk remedies are used as an auxiliary treatment to the main course of therapy.

Despite the safety of natural ingredients, their appropriateness and dosage should be discussed with your doctor. Popular recipes:

• plantain is crushed in a blender, juice is squeezed out of the resulting gruel. Mix 1 glass of juice with 1 tsp.l. alcohol and 1 tbsp. ash. It is applied 5 times a day. Course – a week;
• chamomile in an amount of 20 g is poured with 300 ml of boiling water and infused for half an hour. The solution is filtered, used to wipe the lichen lesions on the skin for 7-10 days;
• medium-sized beets are boiled for 40 minutes, peeled and grated on a fine grater. The same amount of buckwheat honey is added to the resulting gruel. Store the mixture in the refrigerator, apply three times a day for a week;
• black raisins (1 handful) are steamed with boiling water, then crushed into gruel and applied to the foci of the disease 2 times a day.After 3 days, the effect will begin to appear. Course – until complete recovery.

Source:
http://gribok24.ru/gribok/gribok-golovy/chem-lechit-strigushhij-lishaj.html

Ringworm

Ringworm is a skin disease caused by Microsporum molds. Children are more prone to this disease than adults.

Most often, ringworm activity occurs in the summer-autumn period. The main route of infection is close contact with animals that are sick with shingles.However, if you follow the rules of hygiene, then the mushrooms that have got on the skin can simply be washed off with water in the shower.

Only a specialist can diagnose ringworm, he will prescribe the correct treatment. Therapy usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. It is not recommended to take any actions on your own, otherwise there may be unpleasant consequences.

1. Ringworm
2. Ringworm Causes
3. Ringworm symptoms
4. Features of the disease
5. Acute and chronic forms
6. Trichophytosis (STEP 4)
7. Microsporia
8. 5 main types of disease
9. Diagnostics
10. Treatment
11. Home treatment
12. Treatment with alternative methods
13. Treatment during pregnancy
14. Prevention of the disease

Ringworm

Ringworm (microsporia, trichophytosis) is a dermatomycosis caused by keratinophilic molds of the genus Microsporum and manifested by damage to the skin and their derivatives (hair, eyelashes, rarely nails).This infection has a summer-autumn season.

Children suffer from ringworm more often than adults due to their contacts with stray animals, boys are 5 times more likely than girls, among adult women more often than men.

It is interesting that people with red hair color rarely get sick with microsporia. The prevalence of this disease is about 50-70 cases per 100 thousand of the population.

Causes of ringworm

The main route of infection is contact-household, through direct contact with a sick person or animal:

1. Children from 4 to 15 years old are most susceptible to ringworm infection, microsporia is especially easily transmitted through contact with infected animals.
2. Both trichophytosis and microsporia can be transmitted from a sick person to a healthy contact-household route, that is, through household items, clothes, combs, linen.
3. Even in a hairdresser, if you don’t disinfect your clipping and shaving tools, you can get ringworm.
4. Contact with the affected skin of a patient may also transmit lichen.

However, in addition to getting the pathogen on the skin, in order for infection and reproduction of fungi on the skin, nails and scalp of a healthy person to occur, certain provoking conditions are necessary, since with a strong immune system and the absence of damage to the skin, the risk of developing the disease is minimal.

Ringworm risk factors include the following:

• Skin maceration – softening of the skin with prolonged contact with water.
• Violation of the integrity of the skin – injuries, abrasions, scratches, burns, etc.
• Low immunity and the presence of other skin diseases. Constant stress, depression is the strongest factor leading to a decrease in the body’s defenses.

Ringworm symptoms

The symptoms of ringworm may vary slightly, depending on the location of the infection, on disorders in the functioning of the immune system and on its ability to cope with the disease.

Features of the disease

Clinical symptoms depend on the form of the disease, the type of pathogen, as well as on the state of health of the person. The following forms of ringworm can be distinguished.

Acute and chronic forms

Pathology can be acute and chronic. If the patient does not take all the necessary actions to eliminate the pathogen, then the lichen can become chronic and torment his carrier with stable remissions.

For this reason, you should immediately start taking antimycotic drugs with a narrow direction in order to exclude the preservation of the fungus in the body.This rule is especially true for adults who are less tolerant of ringworm disease.

Trichophytosis (4 STEPS)

The causative agent of this type of lichen is the fungi Trichophyton Violaceum and Tonsurans, which affect various areas of the body. It can develop both in one and in several areas at the same time.

Here are the features of trichophytosis:

1. Incubation period. It is about two weeks and appears after the 10th day. Until this period of time, the patient does not observe any changes in his own state.
2. Acute form. The first signs of ringworm, as a rule, are inflamed spots of an oval or round shape without clear boundaries. Hair also begins to break at a distance of 1-2 mm from the root, around which black dots appear. It is for them at advanced stages that you can visually diagnose the disease and determine its pathogen.
3. Outcome of the disease. If a child under 12 years of age has become infected with this form of lichen, then with a greater degree of probability, the pathology will go away on its own during puberty. In adults, this problem can persist for much longer. The greatest danger is posed by women who are unaware of their condition and transmit pathology to their children during childbirth.
4. Consequences. The disease does not lead to lifelong baldness and does not pose a serious danger to the body, however, it creates a comfortable microflora for damage by other skin diseases.

Microsporia

The main distributor of this pathology is fur-bearing animals, however, lichen can infect people and be transmitted between any carriers.
Among the fungus Microsporum are two species Ferrugineum and Lanosum (rusty and fluffy, respectively).

The following are the features of microsporia:

• Incubation period. When transmitted from an animal – up to 7 days, from a person – up to 6 weeks. This difference has a logical explanation, because any pathogen tries to penetrate and get along in the body as imperceptibly as possible for its carrier. The pathogen that has taken root in the human body already has a masking mechanism, then the animal fungus has a more aggressive behavior. The incubation period lasts from the moment of infection until the first symptoms appear and ranges from 1 to 6 weeks.
• Acute form. The disease begins with spots and obvious peeling of the skin. On the surface of the spot, white scales stand out that do not cause itching. Then, bald patches form in the focus of infection, the diameter of which can reach 5 cm. Then, the spread of small bald patches, up to 2 cm in diameter, begins. The hair breaks off, as in the case of trichophytosis, but at a distance of about 5 mm from the root.The accumulation of spores of the fungus manifests itself in the form of small, barely distinguishable rings (may have a cylindrical shape).
• Outcome of the disease. Patients can experience both progression of the disease and its independent resolution. The transition to the chronic stage is fraught with the occurrence of related problems.
• Consequences. The advanced stages of the disease, with damage to the deep layers, can lead to the formation of scars, which gives the impression of the formation of bald patches.

5 main types of disease

The disease can proceed according to one of the described types:

1. infiltrative – the inflammatory element has a vivid expression, the accumulation of spores is poorly visible, but a hyperemic area protrudes at the level of 3 mm;
2. infiltrative-suppurative – has a more vivid expression of inflammation, the hyperemic area rises above the skin up to 4-5 mm.In the same area, blisters are formed, containing purulent fluid inside. The remnants of broken hair are easily removed by stretching, they are affected by purulent crusts. With advanced stages of the disease, painful abscesses can form in the deep layers of the skin, intoxication of the body occurs, the temperature rises;
3. exudative – blisters filled with serous fluid form at the sites of the lesion. Over time, they burst, the liquid covers the skin and sticks together the dead scales, thus forming a yellowish crust.Removal of these crusts exposes moist foci of infection;
4. trichophytoid – a sluggish process, scattered over the entire surface of the head. Small foci of the disease either form small bald patches, or are absent at all and do not bother their wearer;
5. seborrheic – received the name for the similarities with seborrheic dermatitis. This type of lichen does not form bald patches and does not break hair, but it helps to thin the hair. There is a sluggish course of the disease, there are no obvious foci, there are no boundaries of distribution.

Diagnostics

The presence of the disease is determined only by taking anamnesis. Ringworm is diagnosed by a dermatologist or trichologist. The analysis should be performed in a clinical setting.

Source:
http://medlib.pro/striguschiy-lishay/

How to treat ringworm? There are a lot of funds, but the treatment will be long

Author: Aleksey Shevchenko 16 August 2017 23:49 Category: Nature and man

Good day, dear regular readers and guests of Alexey Shevchenko’s blog “Healthy lifestyle”.In the summer, parents of young children add one more concern to all other concerns – the need to protect the baby from such an unpleasant infection as ringworm. This can be very difficult to do. Firstly, children are very susceptible to this infection, and secondly, yard cats and dogs, with whom they love to communicate so much, get sick especially often in summer. Therefore, cases of infection can occur even with impeccable hygiene.

Of course, this disease can greatly spoil the summer holidays not only for the child, but for the whole family.Still, there is no reason for panic or despair. Modern medicine has a sufficient number of products to help cleanse the skin quickly. So, the topic of today’s article is how to treat ringworm.

What causes ringworm?

Microsporia, or ringworm, is a highly contagious disease caused by fungi from the genus Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton. It can affect any mammals, including humans. (Read about other types of lichens here).

The main carriers of the fungus are cats and dogs. Cases of infection from rabbits, pigs, goats, horses and sheep are somewhat less common. The danger is not only the sick animal or person itself, but also any objects contaminated with the smallest particles of skin, pieces of hair and nails. Everything that the carrier of the disease came into contact with is exposed to infection – bed linen, clothes, all household items; in the case of animals – food, bedding, inventory and clothing of a person caring for a sick animal.

The fungus is active all year round and especially often affects children, young people and animals. The disease is much more easily transmitted to humans from animals than from other people.

It is interesting to note that in cities people and animals get sick with this type of lichen much more often than in rural areas.

Source:
http://dolgo-zivi.ru/chem-lechit-strigushchij-lishaj

Ringworm in humans

How to treat ringworm in humans at home
Ringworm is a highly contagious (contagious) infection of the skin, hair or nails caused by pathogenic fungi.The infection can be caused by two types of fungi – Trichophyton and Microsporum. The correct designation of the disease is based on the name of the fungus that caused it, therefore, doctors isolate trichophytosis and microsporia.

Both these forms of fungal infection (trichophytosis and microsporia) are combined under the general term ringworm. Thus, ringworm is also called trichophytosis, microsporia, dermatophytosis, dermatomycosis, or dermatophytosis. The Trichophyton fungi are microbes that only parasitize human skin, while Microsporum infects both humans and animals.Ringworm is most infectious in children 4 to 13 years old.

In the article, we will consider ringworm, the causative agent of the disease, its symptoms, routes of infection, as well as preventive measures in the table.

What is it?

Ringworm in humans is an infectious skin disease caused by two types of pathogenic fungi – trichophyton and microsporum. Therefore, the general term for ringworm is the name microsporia, trichophytosis, dermatomycosis, dermatophytosis.Microsporum fungi equally infect humans and animals, while trichophyton parasitizes only on human skin.

Causes of occurrence

The fungus Trichophyton tonsurans was first identified many decades ago. Its name is directly related to its ability to damage hair. Fungi that parasitize humans cause superficial and chronic ringworm. And zoophilic forms cause infiltrative-suppurative skin lesions.

1. Chronic diseases and vitamin deficiency contribute to the appearance of lichen.
2. Infection occurs after contact with a sick person or his hygiene items, when working with hay and soil, after contact with an animal.
3. More often, the disease occurs against the background of a decrease in immunity and violation of the rules of personal hygiene, with long-term care of animals and damage to the outer covering of the body (scratches, abrasions, burns).

About what ringworm in children and adults has symptoms and signs, we will tell further.

Classification

There are two types of ringworm in humans:

1. Surface.It is transmitted only from person to person, more often it affects young children. Distinguish between acute and chronic forms of the course of this type of disease.
2. Infiltrative-suppurative. It is caused by parasites that live on the body of animals. The main risk group is agricultural workers, as well as children playing with stray animals.

This is interesting – popular questions about trichophytosis

Incubation period of the disease

The incubation period of the fungal infection that causes the appearance of ringworm ranges from several days to 6 – 8 weeks and depends on the type of pathogen that has entered the body.

Superficial lichen may appear with the first symptoms as early as 5-7 days after infection. Infiltrative-suppurative lichen for several months does not give any clinical manifestations.The first signs of the disease appear no earlier than 6-8 weeks after the pathogen enters the body.

Symptoms

What does ringworm look like at the initial stage, how to recognize it in time and prevent hair loss? Unfortunately, a person may not immediately notice the first signs of an illness. Any part of the scalp begins to lose its vegetation. The hairs gradually thin out, fall out and break, changing their length to 1 – 2 mm. Peeling of the skin joins the problem.As the disease progresses, the focus becomes clear.

Ringworm symptoms (see photo) are more noticeable on the chest, back, lower and upper limbs. A person may notice abnormalities such as:

• burning and itching spots;
• redness and swelling of the skin;
• framing the hearth with a solid roller;
• blistering of the focus, followed by the expiration of the contents and the formation of crusts.

In case of nail trichophytosis, the plates become brittle, dull.Their structure thickens and coarsens. Subsequently, the nails crumble and change their color. Dents on the plates, grooves and a dirty gray color are characteristic signs of lichen.

In addition to ringworm foci on the head, problem areas can also occur on the body. The disease is manifested by a rash, elements of which are similar to red, rounded spots. Since the fungus feeds on keratin taken from the upper epidermal layers, then gradually the skin elements acquire the contours of the ring.”Eating” keratin in one area, parasitic microorganisms move on. This is why plaques grow in diameter and change the boundaries of their edges.

The accumulation of dermatophytes leads to the formation of a bright border. Its blistering and scaling indicate an increased activity of fungi in this zone. Sometimes the parasites return to the center of the ring and reuse it as a source of food. But this is only possible when the reserves of keratin are restored. The so-called “ring in a ring” is a clear sign of increased dermatophyte activity.

Chronic ringworm

It can be localized on the scalp, fingernails, or smooth skin. On the head, lesions are localized, for the most part, on the temples and the back of the head. The lesion is a small (no more than 0.5 cm) smooth scar, similar to atrophic, which peels off a little, but does not show signs of an inflammatory reaction. At the site of this focus, the hair breaks off at the very root, forming a spot called a black point.

Chronic ringworm on smooth skin is most often localized on the buttocks, thighs, on the bends of the knee and elbow joints, or on the palms.In this case, the lesion looks like a cyanotic or pinkish spot of a rather large size with an indistinct outline. The surface of the spot is moderately flaky.

Usually, the lesions are characterized by only mild itching, other subjective symptoms are absent. Nails affected by lichen become dull, cloudy, gray in color, the outer edge becomes jagged and is easily painted. The nail can suddenly become very thick or, on the contrary, thin.

What does ringworm look like: photo

The photo below shows how the disease manifests itself in humans in the initial and advanced stages.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis is based on a visual examination of the patient, as well as the collection of an anamnesis of the disease and a survey of possible sources of infection. If in doubt, the doctor will perform a scraping of the affected area.

The collected materials are examined under a microscope or placed in a nutrient medium for three days, during which rapid growth of fungal colonies is observed. Upon detection of filaments of mycelium and spores of the fungal pathogen, its identification is performed.

Treatment of ringworm in humans

In the treatment of ringworm in humans, the basis of therapy is the fight against the fungus that caused dermatomycosis. Home therapy combines local treatment with lichen ointments – antifungal creams, sprays, shampoos with antifungal drugs taken orally.

The treatment regimen is prescribed by a dermatologist, the main aspects are as follows:

1. Smooth skin ringworm responds better to treatment with Terbinafine and Tolnaftate.
2. A 5% iodine solution is usually used to treat lichen in the morning. And in the evening, as a rule, sulfur-salicylic or sulfur-digester ointment is prescribed, treatment with pure salicylic acid 3% is also possible.
3. A dermatologist can write a prescription for the production of Vidal milk in the prescription department of the pharmacy – alcohol, camphor, salicylic acid, sulfur lotion, boric acid, glycerin. Or Lassar pastes – petroleum jelly, starch, salicylic acid, zinc oxide.
4. For local treatment, the doctor may recommend various ointments, creams, shampoos containing Clotrimazole, Ketoconazole, Micoseptin, Terbinafine, Micoconazole.(Local antifungal agents – creams, sprays, gels).

For systemic treatment of dermatomycosis, Griseofulvin is used, it is a natural antimycotic that has a narrow spectrum of action, namely it is active against dermatomycete fungi, Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epydermophyton, Achorionum.

1. Treatment must be accompanied by oral administration of griseofulvin. It should be taken for 15-25 days, and once a week, take a bacterioscopic scraping to detect the fungus.As soon as the fungus is not detected, the intake of griseofulvin is continued every other day, at the same dose that the doctor calculated, for another 14 days so that there is no relapse of the disease.
2. If the feet are affected by the fungus, it is recommended that they undergo a course of treatment with Ketoconazole or Clotrimazole orally, and topically apply selenium sulfide.

For the treatment of chronic ringworm, in addition to antifungal agents, both local and oral (Griseofulvin), vitamin therapy, immunomodulators, drugs that strengthen blood vessels and improve microcirculation are also indicated.

Hygiene measures in contact with the sick

If you yourself or your child touched a sick animal or communicated with a sick person, then urgent action is needed.

1. The sooner you wash off the particles containing the fungus from the skin, the less chance of infection.
2. Wash your hands several times with antifungal soap. The simplest remedy that is found in almost every store is cinnamon laundry soap, or better, soap with birch tar.
3. Wash the entire body with this soap. Suddenly, particles of the patient’s skin got under the clothes. Do not use a hard washcloth. It leaves micro-scratches on the skin, into which the fungus easily penetrates.
4. Antifungal shampoo must be used for shampooing. For example, Nizoral. You can also use it as a shower gel.
5. Cyteal is a modern agent with a powerful antifungal effect. Dissolve it in a small container five times.This will create a frothing liquid that you can use to wash your hands and whole body.
6. Lavender oil, tea tree oil and turpentine have antifungal effects. They can be used to treat small areas of skin.

Also, five days after contact, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. He examines the body with a Wood lamp. If you nevertheless become infected, then the disease can be detected in the early stages. This will help to quickly heal her at home and not go to the hospital.

Preventive measures

Prevention includes good personal hygiene and isolation of sick animals or people.

At the place of detection of the patient, thorough disinfection is carried out, bed linen and accessories, soft toys, carpets are subjected to heat treatment. A sick child is not allowed into the children’s team until the ringworm is completely cured. Patients are prohibited from visiting swimming pools, saunas, baths. Kindergarten teachers, nannies, public utilities workers, bath attendants are suspended from their duties.

Is ringworm dangerous for humans? The most serious consequences are persistent alopecia areata due to cicatricial changes in skin tissue. The disease should be treated as soon as its clinic begins in order to exclude infection of the close environment and reduce the risk of a severe allergic reaction.

Source:
http://p-87.ru/m/strigushhij-lishaj-u-cheloveka/

Treatment of ringworm in humans

The most contagious fungal infection of hair, nails, and human skin is called ringworm.Pathogenic fungi are the causative agents of this type of lichen. This type of infection is the most studied in medicine and can be called microsporia or trichophytosis. The name is given according to the type of fungus that caused the ringworm infection in humans. Treatment for this lichen is reduced to local therapy and oral administration of antifungal pills.

• Possible routes of infection
• Signs and symptoms of ringworm
  • Classification of ringworm by specialists
• How to treat ringworm in an adult
• How to treat ringworm in children

In addition to the well-known name ringworm, lichen also has medical names: dermatomycosis, dermatophytosis, dermatophytosis, trichophytosis and microsporia.Microsporia and trichophytosis have a significant difference between themselves, which consists in the fact that the first type of fungus parasitizes domestic animals , and the second lives only on the human body.

Possible routes of infection

Deprive are most often infected through contact with animals or people with this disease. The main risk group for the incidence of lichen is children aged four to fifteen years. Microsporia easily passes from a sick animal to a person.The most likely way of transmission of lichen is contact of a healthy person with the skin of a sick person.

Microsporia and trichophytosis can be transmitted not only through personal contact, but also through the use of common things and household items, for example, combs, clothes. If the sanitary and hygienic standards are not observed and the master’s negligent attitude to the disinfection of the instrument, you can become infected with ringworm even in a hairdresser.

But for the development of this disease, a simple contact of microorganisms on the skin of a healthy person is not enough; special conditions are needed.The risk of infection will be minimized with strong immunity and intact skin. You should also keep your body hygienically clean. When carrying out daily hygiene procedures, you can not be afraid of infection with this fungal infection, because after water procedures, all pathogenic fungi are washed off with water .

Also, one should not be afraid of being reputed to be a squeamish person, and under no circumstances should one use another person’s personal hygiene items.Combs and other items that come into contact with the skin of an infected person can also facilitate the transmission of microorganisms. Risk factors for ringworm infection include:

• Dermal maceration, when prolonged exposure to water softens the skin.
• Scratches, abrasions, trauma, burns and other violations of the integrity of the skin.
• Presence of other skin diseases and low immunity.

Signs and symptoms of ringworm

To establish a diagnosis and prescribe treatment, you should consult a dermatologist.The specialist, in addition to examination, will make a bacteriological examination of the scrapings taken from the site of the lesion and examine them for the presence of fungi. If fungal spores are found, then we can safely say that there is ringworm.

Any area of ​​the skin can be affected by this type of lichen , therefore doctors divide the localization of lichen by areas:

• Torso, legs, skin of the hands.
• Feet on legs.
• Nails on the feet and hands.
• Armpits and groin folds.
• Scalp hair.
• Palms and hands.
• Skin on the face.

Signs of the disease and its symptoms can be different for each person due to the functioning of the immune system, the location of the inflammation, the depth of the skin lesion.

Classification of ringworm by specialists

Dermatologists classify lichen as follows:

• Superficial lichen of the scalp.
• Superficial ringworm of smooth skin.
• Chronic lichen.
• Deep ringworm.

Superficial lichen of the scalp most often affects children, mainly from sick animals or from an infected adult. Not cured in childhood, this type of lichen will go into a chronic stage, and will bother a child until the age of fifteen. In boys, in most cases, self-healing is observed in the transition period, but in girls it may remain in a chronic form.

When the lesion is localized in the head area, at first there is a round focus of with thinning hair.There can be several such foci, or only one. Over time, the skin in such an area begins to peel off, which a sick person often takes for dandruff. As the disease progresses, the hair begins to break off at a distance of 1-2 millimeters from the skin. There may be redness of the scalp in the lesion and the formation of small blisters, which gradually turn into yellow crusts.

The diameter of the lesions can be different and reach ten centimeters.Depriving this species is not characterized by inflammation and the manifestation of itching to an insignificant extent is observed only in some patients. Ringworm causes more psychological discomfort due to the deterioration of the condition of the hairline and the appearance of the hair.

The second type of this disease, characterized by manifestations on smooth skin, can be confused according to the primary signs of the disease with lichen rosacea , which requires a completely different treatment. The main difference between ringworm is its widespread localization on the human body.The pink type of lichen never affects the face, hands, feet, and the duration of the disease does not exceed two months. Ringworm without timely and correct treatment can last for years with the onset of periodic relapses.

On smooth skin, this disease most often affects the face and neck, but can occur on the legs and body. Clear contour spots can be considered a distinctive feature of this disease. A bright red roller of nodules and blisters forms along the edges of the affected skin.The skin in the center of the affected circle is light in color with the presence of gray scales. An increase in the size of focal lesions occurs with the progression of the disease. Lichen on smooth skin is almost always accompanied by itching.

Chronic ringworm is characteristic only for women who suffered from superficial ringworm in childhood, but did not receive the necessary treatment. It occurs most often when the thyroid gland, ovaries, or a lack of vitamins in the body are abnormal, which lead to a decrease in immunity.

Symptoms of this disease include:

• May be localized on nails, scalp or smooth skin. Most often found on the temples and back of the head.
• On the head, it looks like a black spot with hair broken at the root and a diameter of one centimeter. There are no inflammatory symptoms, but peeling of the skin is present.
• On smooth skin, the site of its localization may be elbows, thighs, buttocks or palms.It is characterized by indistinct spots, with a very impressive size and color from pale pink to bluish. Peeling of the skin is observed.
• In addition to its unaesthetic appearance and itching, lichen in the chronic stage no longer manifests itself in any way.
• Localization on the nail plates is characterized by their fragility, dullness, turbidity, grayness, the appearance of chipping and the nail can become very thick or thin to an incredible state.

Deep ringworm differs in the mode of transmission and the main route of infection can only be considered contact with a sick animal.The causative agents of this disease tend to multiply in human hair follicles.

In addition to the main symptoms of ringworm at this stage of the disease, an increase in body temperature, an increase and soreness of the lymph nodes, allergic rashes and general malaise are added. The inflammatory process can last up to three months.

Deep ringworm on the scalp can be recognized by bright red plaques that can be up to ten centimeters in diameter.In appearance, they are uneven, bumpy and resemble tumor growths in appearance.

This condition is explained by purulent inflammation of the follicles and swelling of the scalp, so the plaques are raised above the skin. When follicles are opened, pus may appear and therefore this type of lichen is one of the most painful types. When the inflammatory process subsides in the center of the plaque, the formation of loose brown crusts can be observed. In men, this type of disease can be localized not only on the head, but also in the beard area.

How to treat ringworm in an adult

The basis of therapy in the treatment of this disease is the fight against the fungus that causes dermatomycosis. Only a qualified dermatologist can choose the right complex treatment. The doctor prescribes treatment with ointments, antifungal cream, spray, shampoo, supplemented by internal intake of antifungal drugs.

As a rule, this disease should be treated not only with antifungal agents , but also with the intake of immunomodulators, vitamins and drugs that help strengthen blood vessels and improve microcirculation.At the end of the treatment, a scraping should be taken from the surface of the skin previously affected by lichen. This procedure is carried out three times: at the end of treatment, a week and three months after the completion of treatment.

The disease is considered cured with only three negative scrapings. If a positive test comes, the doctor revises the treatment regimen and prescribes another course. The effectiveness of the treatment can also be checked using a fluorescent lamp. Particles of skin and hair that are covered with fungal spores will have a different glow.In this way, all family members and pets of the patient can be examined in order to exclude the disease or diagnose it in the early stages.

How to treat ringworm in children

Children are more likely to suffer from ringworm due to their inherent love for animals . Rarely does a kid pass by a stray kitten or puppy. Trichophytosis has its own incubation period, which takes from five to ten days in duration. Not all parents know how to treat ringworm.

After that, nodular vesicles begin to appear with spots up to two centimeters in diameter and covered with crusts or scales. All this indicates the presence of ringworm in the child and refers to its primary signs.

The disease gradually spreads throughout the body, moving to the scalp and accompanied by severe itching and swelling. On the head, hair breaks off in the lesions and bald patches appear. The child may experience general malaise 90,059, fever 90,060, decreased appetite and swollen lymph nodes.

It is better not to delay the treatment and immediately show the baby to a pediatrician or dermatologist. It is better to start treatment immediately so that the hair follicles do not atrophy. Otherwise, they will no longer be able to release new hair. The doctor will be able to select the appropriate treatment regimen. You should not treat the child on your own, because only a specialist can select a complex effect on a fungal infection.

In case of severe head lesions, it is better to send the child to a hospital, where he will be prescribed antibiotic therapy.Most often, the full course of treatment takes about two months . As a preventive measure, children should not be allowed to play with stray animals and bring them home from the street without being examined by a veterinarian. And if there is already a dog at home, then on a walk it should be under the supervision of the owner.

Source:
http://dermatolog.guru/zabolevaniya/lishay/lechenie-striguschego-lishaya-u-cheloveka.html

90,000 Caution, shingles!

Caution, deprive!

Microsporia, commonly referred to as lichen, a highly contagious fungal disease of the skin and hair caused by fungi of the genus Microsporum.This is the most common mycosis in children. Currently, there is an increase in the incidence of microsporia.

The main animals involved in the preservation and transmission of infection are cats, especially kittens, less often dogs. Cats of light colors and brindle color are especially often ill with microsporia. Infection with this mycosis is also possible from a person sick with microsporia, extremely rarely from the soil. Still, animals are the culprit. Direct infection occurs during close contact with a sick animal, when they play with it, wash it, warm it under a shirt, let it go to bed, as well as through objects that have been infected with scales and wool.At home, infection is possible through bed linen, towels, clothing, hats, cleaning equipment, animal bedding. In the entrances of houses and courtyards – through the near-door rugs, dust of staircases, attics and basements, sand of children’s sandboxes, water from shallow reservoirs. The source of infection can be a baby carriage left overnight in the entrance of the house and chosen by cats. In hairdressing salons – hair clippers, scissors, combs, curlers. In children’s institutions – toys, towels, hats, linen, books.Microsporia mainly affects children under 15 years old, which is associated with the structural features of sebum and keratin in the hair. In adults, the disease is less common.

The incidence of microsporia varies throughout the year. Two outbreaks of the disease can be distinguished. The first falls in May – June and is associated not only with the birth of attractive kittens for children, but also with greater freedom of children in the summer, their greater contact with the animal world when moving to the village, to the country, to health, sports camps.Another rise in morbidity is observed in September-November, when children return to the city and are carefully examined not only by their parents, but also by medical workers when they enter schools and kindergartens.

The incubation period for microsporia is from 5 to 7 days to 4 to 6 weeks. A pink patch on your baby’s skin should make you suspicious of lichen. At the onset of the disease, round and oval spots appear on the skin more often on the open parts: the face, neck, upper and lower extremities.Spots of pink color, with clear boundaries, a roller along the periphery, covered with scales. They can be unpleasant and itchy. If the lichen treatment is not started on time, the rash can spread throughout the body. Typical lesions on the scalp are usually located on the crown, in the parietal and temporal regions. They look like round – oval “bald patches” up to 3 – 5 cm in diameter.

In the area of ​​the focus, the process of breaking off the hair is clearly visible at the level of 2 – 4 mm from the skin or at the very root, as if trimmed.It is no coincidence that the people call microsporia ringworm. Under Wood’s lamp, the affected hair glows with a green light, reminiscent of a newly mown meadow. The general condition of the patient as a rule does not change.

Having found such signs, do not start the situation and try to see a doctor, if not immediately, then at least in the next few days, do not self-medicate. Children with dry skin or minor injuries and abrasions are at risk. After all, the main function of the epidermis is protection.If it is violated, the likelihood of fungal scales entering the body increases. Treatment of patients with microsporia seems to be an important, socially significant problem. This disease usually affects not only children, but also their parents. Due to the high contagiousness of mycosis, children are prohibited from attending kindergartens and schools. They skip school hours, find themselves separated from the children’s collective for a long time. Parents are forced to interrupt work and take sick leaves for care.

The speedy recovery of patients with microsporia is achieved with timely recognition of mycosis and adequate treatment.It includes the combined use of systemic and external antifungal agents. Treatment can last from 2 weeks to several months, depending on how early it is started. Only your doctor can decide when to stop taking antifungal drugs. If at least one spore of the fungus is not destroyed, the disease will begin again after some time. The criterion for recovery will be three negative tests for fungus, with an interval of 7 days.

To beat shingles faster, try to follow some simple rules:

• Set aside synthetic and stiff clothing.It creates a greenhouse effect, which contributes to the rapid spread of microsporia. Choose cotton and soft clothing. It will not irritate and scratch already injured skin.

• Make sure the child does not come into contact with other children.

• Remove all carpets and soft toys for the duration of the illness: skin particles and hair with fungal spores on them can get on the fleecy surface, from which it will be very difficult to remove them.

• Vacuum and wash the floor frequently using disinfectants to prevent fungal spores from spreading throughout the room.

• Change and treat laundry more often with high temperatures – iron and steam, as well as wash, boil, iron the child’s clothes separately so as not to infect the rest of the family.

• Wash children’s toys after each play.

• Do not bathe your baby in a bathtub, as this can spread the infection throughout the body.

And finally, remember the rules for the prevention of microsporia: never let your child touch unfamiliar animals, and periodically check your pets for infections. Examine your baby carefully every day and during water procedures. And, of course, strengthen the defenses of the child’s body! A baby with good immunity is more likely to avoid infection, even in a direct encounter with lichen. Antiseptic hand gels, which are very convenient to use on the street and on the road, will also slightly reduce the likelihood of infection.

How to protect yourself from microsporia | Regional Skin and Venereal Diseases Dispensary, Khabarovsk

Microsporia (ringworm)

Microsporia is an infectious disease of the integument caused by specific fungi Microsporum canis and Trichophyto tonsurans. This disease is highly contagious, and children are most susceptible to it; ringworm in humans most often affects the skin and hair, less often the nails. If there are minor lesions on the skin or if a person has a reduced immunity, then infection is more likely.Usually, ringworm in humans results from contact with a sick pet (cat or dog) or stray animals, which are most often carriers of the fungus that causes the disease. You can also become infected through direct contact with a sick person or through the use of his personal hygiene items. However, most often, ringworm in humans appears precisely because of the contact with the skin of hair particles or skin of sick people or animals. If a single focus of the disease has appeared, then washing it with a washcloth or sponge contributes to its spread throughout the body.From the moment the fungus gets on the skin, hair or nails of a person and until signs of the disease appear, it can take from 5 days to 6 weeks. A common sign of ringworm is the formation of round or oval, inflamed patches on the skin that contain crusts or scales. A sick person may complain of mild itching in the inflamed area. It is possible that only one small spot appears and there is no itching, but, nevertheless, the ringworm that has arisen requires treatment immediately.If ringworm affects the hair in a person, then a large round or oval-shaped bald spot usually appears at the site of infection. In this area, the hair will be broken off at the level of 4-8 mm, as if they were trimmed with lichen. It is because of this that microsporia received the nickname “ringworm” among the people. Small inflamed spots, sometimes in large numbers, may appear around the bald spot. Complication of infection with this disease is possible in rare cases. This happens if a person has too low immunity, and the disease was not detected in time.Signs of the pathological development of the disease are suppuration of rashes, an increase in body temperature and inflammation of the lymph nodes. Complications of such a disease as ringworm lichen should not be allowed, timely treatment is necessary. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a qualified dermatologist during examination. He may also take samples of infected skin for analysis under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.

How to protect yourself from microsporia

Microsporia is an infectious disease in humans and animals caused by microscopic fungi.

· Scales of the skin affected by fungi, fragments of hair, wool containing viable fungi, falling off with the lesion, infect the patient’s belongings – clothes, hats, bedding, household items (washcloths, brushes, books, toys, etc.). Fungi are highly resistant to many adverse environmental factors and are able to maintain pathogenicity (infectivity) for a long time.

· Infection with these fungal diseases can occur both through direct contact with sick animals or humans, and through contact with various environmental objects infected with fungi.

· Of great importance for the prevention of fungal diseases (microsporia) is not only timely and correct specific treatment, but also careful observance of the rules of personal hygiene and disinfection of clothing and linen, premises and various household items through which infection can occur.

· Among animals, cats, especially kittens, are the most common source of microsporia infection. Unfortunately, sometimes, instead of treating sick animals, they are often thrown out into the street.Such a wandering, homeless animal becomes a source of infection for people, especially children.

· If you suspect a disease with microsporia, you should immediately consult a doctor, visit him carefully and do not stop treatment without the doctor’s permission. Careless and incomplete treatment can lead to the return of the disease.

To prevent infection with microsporia of others, certain rules must be observed:

· Parts of the body affected by fungi must be covered with bandages (cover the head with a cap or scarf made of easy-to-wear fabric).

· Use individual bedding, towels, linen, clothing, comb, washcloth and other items.

· Store clothes, hats, used linen and other personal items of the patient separately from the belongings of family members.

Do not visit a hairdresser, sauna, shower, swimming pool, etc., until the doctor’s permission.

· As directed by the doctor, timely, correctly and systematically decontaminate the items used by the patient: boil linen for 15 minutes in 1–2% soap and soda solution or iron with a hot iron, and wash combs, toys, brushes warm with soap and water.

Microsporia and trichophytosis or ringworm

Monday,
thirty
May
2016

On the basis of the order of the Health Department of the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Ugra, anti-epidemic and preventive measures for microsporia and trichophytosis are being carried out at the Nefteyugansk Regional Hospital.

Within the framework of the events, the dermatovenerologist Mikhailova M.V. conducts explanatory conversations with patients, talking about the signs and symptoms of diseases. In addition, on an ongoing basis in the BU “Nefteyugansk Regional Hospital”, there is a specialized promotion of the prevention of dermatophytosis, through the means of disseminating information material.

It should be noted that when the diagnosis is confirmed, the dermatovenerologist immediately goes to check the patient’s immediate environment in order to identify infections.

The first signs of ringworm may be small red patches that form around the hairs on the scalp (rarely on the eyelashes or eyebrows).After a few days, these spots fade and become scaly, and the hair becomes faded and begins to break at a height of a few millimeters from the surface of the skin. Bald spots are formed. The scalp becomes brush-like with short, stiff fibers. Sometimes, bald spots appear to be covered with black dots. This is the first stage in the development of ringworm. Later, the lichen lesions enlarge and become round or oval. At the same time, they are covered with gray, very dense scales.The size of the foci of ringworm can reach up to 10 cm in diameter or more. Nearby foci may merge. Sometimes ringworm may not cause hair loss and may only look like “severe dandruff” that suddenly appears in a healthy baby all over the scalp.

If you notice the symptoms described above in yourself or your child, immediately consult a dermatologist or infectious disease doctor.

If the doctor confirms that you are sick with ringworm, he will be able to prescribe the correct treatment for you, without which the disease can develop for a very long time, can cause a number of extremely unpleasant complications and can spread to other people.It is also possible that after examination, the doctor will determine that in your case the disease is not ringworm and requires a completely different treatment. In some cases, symptoms similar to ringworm develop in diseases such as alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, psoriasis, etc.

To clarify the diagnosis, it is usually enough for a dermatologist to examine the lesions of “lichen” on the skin of a sick child or adult. The doctor can also examine the lichen using a Wood’s lamp (it emits ultraviolet light).To finally confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may conduct a microbiological analysis of the hair and culture of fungi.

Natural sources of Microsporia can be cats (often stray), pigs and other animals. The causative agents of the disease live in the fur (bristles) of animals. Often, infected animals show no signs of ringworm. This phenomenon is called colonization.

You can get Trichophytosis from other people. As we have already shown in our special articles on this topic, fungi from the genus Trichophyton cause not only ringworm, but also a well-known fungus on nails, hands, feet, etc.For this reason, an adult or child can get ringworm from another person who has fungus on their feet, between their toes, on the palms of their hands, or on their nails.
Ringworm fungal spores can survive for a long time on combs, brushes, sofas, bedding, car seats, stuffed animals, and other items.

To minimize the risk of your infection:

• Make sure your child uses separate sheets and towels during the entire period of illness.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water whenever you touch any ringworm lesions on your baby’s skin or belongings.
• Wear disposable rubber gloves if you must apply ointment to ringworm lesions on your child’s head.
• Be sure to see a doctor to check if you are a carrier of ringworm fungus spores. This is possible even if you do not have any symptoms of the disease

If tests show that a family member has spores in the hair or skin of the fungus (especially microsporia) that causes ringworm (in medicine this is called carrier), the doctor will have to prescribe prophylactic antifungal treatment for all family members.This treatment is as follows: you need to wash your hair with an antifungal shampoo, twice a week, for 4 weeks (shampoo should be applied to the head for 10-15 minutes and then rinsed off).

Deprive what kind of disease, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Lichen is a generalized name for a group of various skin diseases, mainly expressed in small nodular rashes or severely itchy spots on the skin.The main danger of depriving children is infection in the wounds that form when combing the rash.

Consult a dermatovenerologist

Do not postpone treatment

Versicolor versicolor (pityriasis)

Pathogen: yeast-like fungi Pityorosporumorbiculare, Pityorosporumovale, Malasseziafurtur. All these fungi live on human skin constantly, the disease begins when there is a sharp increase in the number of their colonies.

Reasons for occurrence:

• increased sweating and sunburn during the hot season;
• hormonal disruptions;
• nervous strain, stress;
• disruption of the gastrointestinal tract.

Symptoms:

• itchy spots on the skin that are pink, coffee, or brown;
• small peeling of the skin in the area of ​​\ u200b \ u200bthe spots.

Tinea versicolor is usually treated with topical antifungal drugs.

Pink lichen (Gibert’s disease)

Causal agent: is not known exactly.

Reasons for occurrence:

• decreased immunity;
• skin damage.

Symptoms:

• the formation of a large spot of light pink color on the skin, over time this spot begins to peel off, and smaller spots appear around;
• itching in the area of ​​spots.

Pink lichen is usually treated with antiallergic drugs. It is also important to exclude any irritation of the skin with synthetic clothing and increase immunity.

Shingles

Causative agent: varicella-zoster virus (herpesvirus). It is a contagious disease.

Causes of a person who had previously had chickenpox:

• decreased immunity;
• nervous strain;
• oncological diseases;
• HIV.

In addition, infection is possible through contact with a patient with shingles.

Symptoms:

• pink swollen spots on the skin;
• painful sensations in the area of ​​\ u200b \ u200bthe spots;
• the formation of bubbles with liquid on the spots;
• increased body temperature.

When these symptoms appear, it is necessary to urgently consult a dermatologist, as complications up to motor paralysis are possible.

Treatment for shingles is symptomatic – pain relievers and corticosteroids are used, and antiviral drugs are sometimes prescribed.

Ringworm (versicolor in dogs)

Contagious fungal disease.

Causative agent: fungus Microsporumcanis.

Causes of occurrence: infection through contact with a sick animal or human ringworm

Symptoms:

• scaly oval spots;
• the appearance of bald spots on the hairy parts of the body;
• increased body temperature;
• suppuration on the spots.

Ringworm treatment is carried out with antifungal drugs and topical iodine solution.

If lichen develops, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist who will determine the type of disease and prescribe the appropriate treatment. This will prevent the possibility of recurrence of the disease and the occurrence of complications.

Make an appointment with a dermatovenerologist

Do not postpone treatment

Why Choose American Medical Clinic?

• A team of professionals. Candidates and doctors of medical sciences, professors and associate professors of departments of leading universities, doctors of the first and highest qualification categories work in the clinic 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We work without holidays and days off to keep you healthy and happy.
• Regular professional development. Every doctor regularly undergoes refresher courses, attends seminars, goes on internships, participates in conferences, and is trained abroad.This helps to maintain the qualifications of doctors at the highest level. Today, AMK doctors’ training allows them to train young doctors, acting as experts at European-level seminars.
• Advanced technologies. We regularly invest not only in training and professional development of personnel, but also in the acquisition of the most modern equipment from leading European manufacturers.
• The value of time. The American Medical Clinic has all the conditions for a comfortable comprehensive examination and diagnosis of a patient on the day of treatment.
• Customer confidence. For 25 years of impeccable work, more than 500,000 patients have entrusted their health to us. More than 80% of patients recommend us to their family and friends.
• Warranties. We are 100% responsible for the quality of the services provided, the high level of which is confirmed by many years of experience.