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Ringworm infection

Description

Ringworm (tinea) is a contagious fungal infection of the superficial skin, which can occur in both animals and humans. It appears in the shape of ringworm because of which it is called ringworm infection. When the infection starts it appears as a red, itchy circular rash on the affected area, which spreads afterwards. On the basis of location ringworm infection is differentiated into:

  1. Tinea corporis; infection of skin other than nails, scalp, groin, foot, face etc.
  2. Tinea pedis; infection of foot also known as athlete’s foot.
  3. Tinea capitis; infection of the scalp
  4. Tinea cruris; infection on tr groin region also known as jock itch
  5. Facial ringworm; infection of the face
  6. Tinea unguium; infection of nails,
  7. Ringworm in the beard area
Causes

Ringworm infection spreads through contact with infected animals or humans. It is caused by three types of fungi, which are Trichophytan, Microsporum and Epidermophytan. The fungi may live as spores in soil, contact with this soil can cause the infection.

 

Risk factors

Risk factors for ringworm infection includes:

  • Weak immune system,
  • Warm climate,
  • Contact with an infected person,
  • Sharing clothes or bedding with the infected person.
  • Wearing tight clothes etc.
Symptoms

Symptoms of ringworm infection include:

  • Ringlike rash,
  • Flat, scaly and raised edges,
  • Blisters,
  • Outside of the ring appears inflamed,
  • Overlapping of rings,
  • Inside of the ring appears clear and scaly while the outside of the ring appears inflamed etc.
Diagnosis

Diagnosis is formulated by examining the skin of affected areas using black light. For definite diagnosis biopsy, fungal culture or KOH test is performed.

Management

Management of ringworm infection includes:

  • Medication:
    • topical antifungals for foot, groin or body ringworm infection.
    • Oral antifungals for ringworm infection of nail and scalp.
    • OTC antifungal lotion and creams.
  • Lifestyle changes:
    • wash bedding and clothes regularly,
    • Clean and dry the infected area,
    • Wearing loose clothing especially in the infected area.
  • Home remedies: applying coconut oil, apple cider vinegar and turmeric on the infected area. Home remedies shouldn’t be used on infected areas being treated with antifungal medicines.
When to consult a doctor?

Consult your doctor if your symptoms don't improve even after taking OTC for 2 weeks.

Available Medicine for Ringworm infection

Contigen 1mg / 1mg / 10mg

Rs.46

Paramount

Skenazole 0.01

Rs.73.7

Le Mendoza