What is ringworm?

What is ringworm? Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophyte infection, or tinea, is a fungal infection of the skin. “Ringworm” is a misnomer, since a fungus, not a worm, causes the infection. The lesion caused by this infection resembles a worm in the shape of a ring — hence the name.

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

Treatment for Ringworm. Ringworm on the skin like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) and jock itch (tinea cruris) can usually be treated with non-prescription antifungal creams, lotions, or powders applied to the skin for 2 to 4 weeks. There are many non-prescription products available to treat ringworm, including: Clotrimazole (Lotrimin,…

What is the difference between ringworm and tinea corporis?

Ringworm often causes a ring-shaped rash that is itchy, red, scaly and slightly raised. The rings usually start small and then expand outward. Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It’s usually a red, itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle.

Can ringworm spread below the surface?

A fungal infection rarely spreads below the surface of the skin to cause serious illness. But people with weak immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, may find it difficult to get rid of the infection. Ringworm is difficult to prevent. The fungus that causes it is common, and the condition is contagious even before symptoms appear.