Ringworm also known as dermatophyte infection, dermatophytosis, or tinea infection. it is a fungal infection of the skin.
ringworm usually an itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle. Ringworm gets its name because of its appearance. No worm is involved.
Ringworm is usually specifically used to describe tinea corporis (ringworm of the body), tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp), and tinea pedis (athlete's foot). It’s sometimes used to describe tinea infection in other locations, such as tinea cruris (ringworm of the groin).
Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal.it can affect both humans and animals. The infection initially appears as discolored, often scaly patches on affected areas. These patches typically appear red on lighter skin or brown-gray on darker skin.
Ringworm may spread from an affected area to other parts of the body, such as-scalp, feet, hands,nails, groin.
What is the symptoms of Ringworm?
Signs and symptoms of ringworm may include-
itchiness.
A scaly ring-shaped area, typically on the buttocks, trunk, arms and legs
Itchiness.
itchy or scaly patches that are red, brown, or gray, or raised areas of skin called plaques
a round, flat patch of itchy skin.
patches with edges that are defined and raised.
A round, flat patch of itchy skin
Overlapping rings
patches that develop blisters or pustules.
hair loss
What is the Causes of ringworm?
About 40 different species of fungus can cause ringworm. Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection caused by common mold-like parasites that live on skin and other surfaces, particularly damp areas. They may also live for an extended period of time as spores in soil.
It can be spread in the following ways- Human to human. Ringworm often spreads by direct, skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.They are typically of the Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton types.
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