Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection that lives off of a host and that passes from person to person either through direct contact, through contact with an infected object, or through contact with an infected pet or infected soil. The fungi that cause ringworm are called dermatophytes. Fungi that mostly live in human skin are called "anthropophilic," those that live on animals are called "zoophilic" and those that prefer to live in soil are called "geophilic" fungi. While spores from all three types can infect humans, anthrophilic fungi are so common on human skin that they do not often produce an immune response. Geophilic and zoophilic types of dermatophyte are more likely to cause an inflammatory response in human skin.
Tinea Capitis
Tinea capitis, or ringworm of the scalp, causes round, red, itchy patches to appear on the scalp. Over time, the patches grow and can become scaly. Where they appear, hair becomes brittle and breaks off near the scalp, leaving circular bald areas on the scalp. Tinea capitis is highly contagious and common in school-age children, and it can be passed from person to person or even from an infected pet to a person.
Tinea Cruris
Tinea cruris, commonly called "jock itch," causes a red, itchy rash with well-demarcated edges in the groin area. Because the ringworm fungus prefers dark, moist areas, the creases at the tops of the thighs and between the buttocks are ideal. This is an area with a higher number of sweat glands than many other areas of the body and the increased perspiration adds to an environment where the fungus can flourish. Tight underclothes and synthetic fabrics that do not allow for air flow exacerbate the problem because they trap moisture. Jock itch is more common in males than in females and adolescents and adult men are affected more than other age groups. Shared towels can pass the infection from person to person.
Tinea Pedis
Tinea pedis, or athlete's foot, is a ringworm infection of the feet. The rash most often appears in the moist areas between the toes, particularly between the smaller toes, though the rest of the foot can be infected as well. Itching and burning are typical symptoms. Wearing occlusive shoes and synthetic fiber socks that trap moisture around the feet can worsen the outbreak. Community swimming pools, health clubs, steam rooms and showers are common areas where athlete's foot can be contracted.
Tinea Corporis
Tinea corporis is ringworm that appears on the body. The fungus is a parasite that lives just under the surface of the skin and forms a characteristic round red, itchy rash. The center of the rash is generally lighter than the ring itself. A number of rashes may appear. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be contracted from another person, from infected soil or through handling an infected object. As with the other forms of ringworm, tinea corporis can be contracted from an infected animal. Mayo Clinic reports that dogs, cats, ferrets, goats, horses and rabbits can all carry and transmit ringworm to humans.
