Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes itchy, red patches on the skin, nails, scalp or feet. The patches have distinct borders and a clearer area in the center. It is caused by a fungus and spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated items. Diagnosis involves examining skin scrapings under a microscope to check for fungi. Treatment involves antifungal medication for 2-4 weeks and keeping the area dry.

1. Ringworm -An itchy
fungal infection
affecting the skin
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2. What is Ringworm?
Ringworm or tinea is an itchy condition of the skin that presents as circular or arc
like patches with some clearing in the centre and activity at the margins.
Scratching of the patches may result in mild sticky discharge
Areas you can get ringworm
Warm and moist areas Nails Scalp Feet Groin area
such as folds (mostly in children)
© 2012 Right Doctor

3. Symptoms
• Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may have discharge
• Patches tend to have sharply-defined edges
• Often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the
centre. This may look like a ring
• If ringworm affects your nails, they will become discoloured,
thick, and even crumble
• If ringworm affects your hair, you will have bald patches
© 2012 Right Doctor

4. Cause
• Ringworm is caused by fungi dermatophyte
and not by a worm as the name suggests!
• It is a common problem in tropics –
in particular in summers and rains.
• Obese men staying or working in hot and
humid climate frequently have groin
affection.
• Likewise those wearing closed shoes all the
time and with increased sweating are more
likely to get ringworm of the feet.
• Persons with diabetes and patients on Dermatophyte – under microscope
certain drugs like steroids have a risk of
more wide spread disease.
Ringworm is highly contagious. One can catch ringworm if you touch someone who has
the infection, or if you come into contact with items contaminated by the fungus, such
as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces. You can also catch
ringworm from pets that carrying fungus. Cats are common carriers.
© 2012 Right Doctor

5. Diagnosis
• If the symptoms appear a dermatologist should be consulted as
soon as possible
• Typical itchy patches that are seasonal are characteristic.
• Skin test (scrape) for fungus confirms the diagnosis. Some
patients may need blood test for sugar.
Skin Scrape Test
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6. Treatment
Apart from specific treatment prescribed by the dermatologist,
which usually last for 2-4 weeks for skin patches and prolonged for
nail involvement, following general measures are important in
treatment and prevention of recurrence which are common.
Keep the area dry by
a) Exposing the affected
part to cool and dry air.
b) Using anti-fungal talc
freely..
Wear comfortable cotton clothing
Avoid wearing synthetic clothes
© 2012 Right Doctor

7. Prevention
Pets with bald areas need immediate vet
Do not share personal items
attention and should be avoided
• School going children should be educated about ringworm as they are most
susceptible
• Wear slippers or sandals in locker rooms and public pool and bathing areas.
• Keep your skin and feet clean and dry
© 2012 Right Doctor

8. Disclaimer : The intent of the information provided
by Right Doctor is to increase public awareness and
should not be treated as a medical advice. A
physician should be consulted for proper medical
guidance
© 2012 Right Doctor