Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that causes an itchy rash, frequently on the groin or hands. Contrary to its name, it is not caused by a worm. It is caused by one of three species of fungus: trichophyton, microsporum, and epidermophyton. It is highly contagious and can be spread by contact with infected people and animals, and also from spores in the soil.

Ringworm infection, dermatophytosis on skin.

The fungi that cause ringworm are called dermatophytes. They consume keratin, a protein found in the outer layers of skin. Warm, moist skin is an ideal environment for dermatophytes. The infection is very widespread, infecting as much as 20 percent of the population.

Ringworm causes distinctive raised red rings on the skin. Infection of the feet is called athlete's foot and infection of the groin is known as jock itch. The nails may become infected — onychomycosis — causing thickening, discoloration, and loss of the nail. In immunocompromised individuals, ringworm can cause very large lesions, and, rarely, penetrate to deeper layers of skin and internal tissues.

Pets can also be infected with ringworm and transmit the infection to humans.

Hygiene

Good hygiene is important in preventing ringworm. Regular bathing or showering and fresh socks and underwear daily will help prevent the growth of moisture-loving fungus on the groin and feet. Avoid tight clothing like pantyhose and snug underwear. Put socks on before underwear to prevent transfer of fungi from feet to groin.

Since fungus thrives on moisture, dry off completely after a shower, allowing skin to air dry before putting clothes on. A hair dryer on a cool setting can be used to dry skin. When using a towel, dry feet last. Clip finger and toe nails and keep clean. Clothing exposed to ringworm should be washed in hot water with a fungicidal soap.

Sports & sharing items

Shower after any sport that requires skin-to-skin contact. Use slippers, sandals, or shower shoes in locker rooms and public showers. Disinfect exercise machines.

Sharing

Don't share items that can transmit a fungal infection.

• Clothing
• Towels
• Linens
• Hairbrushes
• Combs
• Personal care items
• Sports equipment

Pets showing symptoms such as hair loss should be examined by a veterinarian. If your pet has ringworm, wear gloves while handling it. Surfaces and pet bedding can be disinfected.

Active infection

In humans, ringworm infections are known as tinea, and named specifically by the area of the body affected. The different types of possible tinea infections are:

• Tinea capitis—infection of the hair and scalp, most common in children
• Tinea corporis—infection of skin on the trunk and extremities
• Tinea faciei—infection of facial skin
• Tinea barbae—infection of hair and skin in the mustache and beard area
• Tinea cruris—infection of skin in the groin area
• Tinea pedis—infection of skin on the feet, also athlete's foot
• Tinea manuum—infection of skin on one or both hands
• Tinea unguium—infection of the nails

A 3D illustration of Trichophyton mentagropytes – the microscopic fungus that causes athlete's foot (Tinea pedis) and scalp ringworm (Tinea capitus).

In the case of an active ringworm infection, topical medications like miconazole, terbinafine, ketoconazole, clotriminazole, and tolnaftate can be used for two or three weeks to treat the infection. Scalp ringworm is sometimes treated with oral medications.

In pets, the same types of medications can be used. Hair around the lesion should be trimmed, and household surfaces and bedding thoroughly cleaned and vacuumed.

The lesions should not be touched, to prevent spreading the infection.

Further Reading

• All Ringworm Content
• What is ringworm?
• Ringworm Causes
• Ringworm Symptoms
• Ringworm Diagnosis

Written by

Dr. Catherine Shaffer

Catherine Shaffer is a freelance science and health writer from Michigan. She has written for a wide variety of trade and consumer publications on life sciences topics, particularly in the area of drug discovery and development. She holds a Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry and began her career as a laboratory researcher before transitioning to science writing. She also writes and publishes fiction, and in her free time enjoys yoga, biking, and taking care of her pets.