Ring Worm (Tinea) skin infections What is a ring worm infection? • This is a contagious fungal skin infection not caused by a worm as the name would indicate • It can affect the skin on the body, scalp (head), nails, feet and groin creases How does Ring Worm skin infection spread? • It is spread by direct contact with the infected individual or an infected pet animal Features • The affected area initially presents with a small flat raised rash which then forms a clearing in the centre surrounded by a raised ring border which when untreated keeps spreading out in a circle with a clear center appearing like a ring hence the name ringworm Symptoms • Scalp/Head (also called as Tinea capitis) • Starts either as small patches of scaling or itchy, red, bumpy rash on the scalp • Hair in the affected area becomes brittle and easily breakable • Leads to smooth bald patches • Foot (athlete’s foot/tinea pedis) • Appears in the warm, moist web of toes where moisture from sweat is trapped due to close fitted shoes • Appears white with peeling and scaling in the toe webs and there can be thickening of skin with overlying dryness on the soles and heels Body (tinea corporis) • Seen more in hot humid climates • Present with the typical ringworm rash which can keep spreading to others parts of the body if untreated Treatment For rashes on the body (Tinea corporis) • Requires only a topical (apply over skin) anti-fungal ointment for 1-2 weeks • Oral antifungal medication might be needed for extensive rashes Infections on the scalp (Tinea capitis) • Will require a prescribed oral anti-fungal medication for 2-12 weeks along with an anti-fungal shampoo Prevention • Avoid sharing personal items like clothing towels, soaps, bedspreads, combs, hats etc. • Wear footwear when in community pools and common shower areas as fungi from an infected foot can remain on damp bathmat and wet floors • Wash hands thoroughly after contact with an infected person • Get infected pets treated fully and wash hands with soap and anti-fungal lotion after handling them • Avoid contact sports and swimming until infection is cleared • Wear loose fitting clothes in hot and humid weather to prevent excessive sweating • Remove the moisture after showering and stay clean Team Ovum Hospitals

• published: 18 Dec 2014
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