HEALTH TALK Ringworm cause, Transmission, Treatment & Prevention

By Paul S Dangha BSc Microbiology,

MLT( AMT ),PT. (ASCP).

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY,

UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES ARKANSAS. LITTLE ROCK

Ringworm, also known as tinea, is caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that infect the skin, hair, and nails. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can invade the outer layers of the skin, feeding on keratin, a protein found in skin cells, hair, and nails. The infection occurs when a person comes into contact with the fungi, either through direct contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated surfaces. The fungi can enter through breaks in the skin and multiply, leading to the development of characteristic symptoms such as red, itchy patches.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of ringworm can vary depending on the area of the body affected:

Skin (Tinea corporis): It usually presents as round, red, itchy patches with raised borders. The center of the patch often appears clearer, giving it a ring-like appearance.

Scalp (Tinea capitis): On the scalp, ringworm can cause hair loss, flaking, dandruff-like scales, and itchy, inflamed patches.

Feet (Athlete’s foot or Tinea pedis): This form leads to itching, burning, and peeling of the skin, especially between the toes.

Groin (Jock itch or Tinea cruris): Ringworm in the groin area causes red, itchy, and sometimes scaly patches.

Nails (Tinea unguium): Ringworm of the nails can cause them to become thickened, discolored, and brittle.

Prevention:

Preventing ringworms involves good hygiene practices:

Avoid close contact with people or animals that have ringworms. Disinfect shared surfaces like gym equipment, public showers, and swimming pool areas, as fungi can survive on these surfaces.

Keep skin clean and dry. Fungi thrive in warm, moist conditions, so it is important to dry areas like feet and groin after showering or sweating.

Wear breathable clothing made of materials like cotton to reduce moisture buildup

Don’t share personal items such as towels, combs, or clothing with others to avoid spreading the infection.

Treatment:

Treatment for ringworm typically involves antifungal medications:

Topical antifungals: Over-the-counter creams, powders, or sprays containing antifungal agents like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine can be applied to the affected area. These medications usually need to be applied for 2-4 weeks, even if symptoms improve earlier, to ensure the infection is completely eradicated.

Oral antifungals: For more severe cases or when the infection affects the scalp or nails, oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine or griseofulvin may be prescribed by a doctor.

Proper hygiene: Regular washing of the affected area with soap and water, along with keeping the area dry, can help speed up recovery and prevent the spread of the infection.

If symptoms do not improve after treatment or the infection spreads, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.