Ringworm (Body) - Symptoms & Causes - Mayo Clinic

Overview

• Definition: Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) is a rash caused by a fungal infection.
• Appearance: Characterized by an itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the center. Resembles a worm but is not caused by one.
• Related Conditions: Includes athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis).
• Transmission: Often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal.
• Treatment: Mild cases respond to antifungal creams; severe cases may require oral antifungal medications.

Symptoms

• Scaly, ring-shaped rash commonly on buttocks, trunk, arms, and legs.
• Itchiness and possibly raised rings.
• Color of rash varies depending on skin tone - red on white skin to reddish, purplish, brown, or gray on black and brown skin.
• May present as overlapping rings or round, flat patches of itchy skin.

When to See a Doctor

• Consult a doctor if the rash does not improve within two weeks of using over-the-counter antifungal products.

Causes

• Fungal Infection: Caused by mold-like parasites on skin cells.
• Transmission:
  • Human-to-human: Direct contact with an infected person.
  • Animal-to-human: Contact with infected animals, common in pets like dogs and cats.
  • Object-to-human: Through contact with contaminated objects like towels, bedding, and clothing.
  • Soil-to-human: Rare, requires prolonged contact with infected soil.

Risk Factors

• Living in warm climates.
• Close contact with infected individuals or animals.
• Sharing personal items like clothing or towels.
• Participation in contact sports.
• Wearing tight clothing.
• Having a weakened immune system.

Complications

• Rarely spreads below the skin to cause serious illness.
• More persistent in individuals with weakened immune systems such as HIV/AIDS.

Prevention

• Education: Awareness about ringworm transmission.
• Hygiene: Frequent hand washing and cleaning shared spaces.
• Avoiding Harsh Conditions: Stay cool and dry, limit use of thick clothing.
• Avoiding Infection: Keep away from infected animals and do not share personal items.

Conclusion

Ringworm is a common, contagious fungal infection that can be managed effectively with appropriate precautions and treatments. Awareness and hygiene are key components in preventing the spread.