There are many fungal infections that affect your skin. Among them, ringworm infection is one of the most common skin infections you encounter in your lifetime. In fact, you might have experienced ringworm infection at least once by now. It is known as ringworm because it has a ring-like rash appearing on the skin. According to Centre of Disease Prevention (CDC), approximately 40 different species of fungi can cause ringworm infections; Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. In medical terms, ringworm is known as ‘Tinea’ or ‘Dermatophytosis’. Also, depending on the location of the infection, the name differs.
- Feet – tinea pedis, also known as “athlete’s foot”
- Groin, inner thighs, buttocks – tinea cruris also known as “jock itch”
- Scalp – tinea capitis
- Beard – tinea barbae
- Hands – tinea manuum
- Toenails/ fingernails – tinea unguium, also known as “onychomycosis”
- Arms/ legs/ body – tinea corporis
What are the symptoms of ringworm infection?
Ringworm infection presents as a very itchy, ring-like, pink color rash with scaling of the center of the lesion. Although generally, this is the case, the symptoms can vary depending on the site of infection. When it is involving the scalp, there will be hair loss. When the nails are involved, there will be destruction leading to brittle nails. When the foot is involved, there will be itchy, whitish plaque-like lesions in between the toes.
How does ringworm infection spread?
The infection commonly spread through skin-to-skin contact. Therefore, to avoid spreading the infection, you should not share clothes, towels, and other personal items with a person who has ringworm infection. People who use public showers, and locker rooms, especially athletes are at risk of ringworm infection. Also, people who wear tight-fitting undergarments, and sweat a lot are at risk of getting ringworm infection.
How do you treat ringworm infection?
Ringworm infection treatment usually depends on the location of the infection in your body. Usually, it can be treated with “over-the-counter” antifungal topical preparations. They come as creams, lotions, and powder. Sometimes the topical applications may not be adequate, especially if the infection is serious and has spread more within the body. In these instances, oral antifungal preparations may be required. However, if the symptoms do not resolve within 1-2 weeks after application, or have spread more, it is advisable to contact your health care provider.
There are many antifungal preparations available, including;
- Ketoconazole
- Miconazole
- Clotrimazole
- Terbinafine
How can I prevent ringworm infection?
Changing your lifestyle and good hygienic practices will help you to avoid spreading the infection.
- Washing your clothes and bedding regularly
- Wearing loosely fitting clothes
- Drying your skin thoroughly after a wash
- Bathe regularly if you sweat regularly
- Avoid using others’ personal equipment/ clothes
- Don’t walk barefoot in areas like public showers
- Wash your hands regularly
Summary
Ringworm or tinea infection is a commonly seen skin infection that is caused by a group of fungi species. Depending on the area of the infection the symptoms and the treatment may differ. The commonest presentation is a ring-like pink itchy rash. The treatment is “over-the-counter” topical antifungal preparations. Depending on the severity, you may need oral antifungal preparations. Lifestyle modifications and good hygienic practices will prevent spreading the infection.
Resources
- Ringworm | Types of Diseases | Fungal Diseases | CDC. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/index.html
- Articles. (n.d.). https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/t/tinea-infection.html
