Ringworm

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Ringworm

Ringworm is an infection on the skin, hair, or nails caused by a fungus; it is not caused by a worm. Ringworm of the skin can spread quickly, is often itchy, and appears as a rash with patches that may be red, peeling, or scaly with blisterlike bumps on the edges that look like worms.

The medical term for many fungal infections is tinea, followed by a word that describes the location of infection. For example, tinea faciei is ringworm of the face.

Ringworm of the scalp or beard usually requires treatment with antifungal pills to completely destroy the fungi. Other kinds of ringworm often can be treated at home with medications available without a prescription, such as antifungal creams, powders, and pills. However, if the rash is widespread and severe, prescription antifungal pills may be needed.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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