Types of Fungal Skin Rashes

Skin infections fall under two general categories, tinea and candida. Both types of infections occur in the top layer of skin, hair, nails and mucous membrane. However, some infections can invade deeper layers of the skin and spread to the blood and internal organs. The most common fungal infections are ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot and candidiasis.

Ringworm of the Scalp (Tinea Capitis)

Tinea capitis, ringworm of the scalp, usually occurs in young children, but can also occur in adults. Tinea capitis is contagious and is prevalent in schools and day care settings. Hats, hair implements, pillows and pets can also harbor tinea capitis and the fungus can live for weeks or months on hair samples. Tinea capitis causes patchy hair loss and a scaly rash. In more severe cases the fungus forms a large, oozing rash called a kerion and is usually accompanied by pain, swelling and fever. If left untreated, a kerion can leave permanent scarring and hair loss. The fungus travels deep into the follicle where topical medication is not effective, so ringworm of the scalp requires oral medication.

Ringworm of the Body (Tinea Corporis)

Like tinea capitis, tinea corporis is contagious and is most common in children. The rash gets its name from its shape---round and red, with raised, wavy edges like a worm. The rash may also be scaly in texture. As the rash grows, the center becomes clear, creating the classic "ring" shape. Because it affects the top layer of skin, tinea corporis responds well to topical medications. However, more severe cases may require oral medication.

Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris)

Jock itch is also known as ringworm of the groin. Jock itch is most prevalent in adult men and adolescent boys but can also affect others. The fungus prefers warm, moist areas and the most common cause of jock itch is prolonged wetness, such as from sweating. Tight clothing can also encourage the condition by restricting air flow to the area. Like tinea corporis and tinea capitis, jock itch is contagious and can be passed by skin-to-skin contact or contact with infected clothing. Jock it usually stays around the thighs and rarely involves the scrotum or penis. It can, however, spread to the anus. Like tinea corporis, the fungus responds well to topical medications.

Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)

Tinea pedis, athlete's foot, is most common among adults but, like all forms of tinea, can affect all age groups. There are four varieties and the most common form involves the webs between the fourth and fifth toes. Another variety, moccasin-type, appears as a thick scale over the entire sole. The vesicular type involves small, itchy blisters, especially near the instep. The vesicular form is the type often depicted in commercials for athlete's foot medicines. The forth variety involves skin peeling, oozing fluid discharge and, often, a strong odor. Tinea pedis is hard to get rid of and often comes back, even after successful treatment. This may be because we often wear shoes that trap moisture and bacteria. There are several over-the-counter medications that effectively treat tinea pedis or a doctor may provide a prescription. If there is a bacterial infection, in addition to the fungal infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

Nail fungus is more common among adolescents and adults and is often the result of an untreated case of athlete's foot or a fungal infection on the hands. People who get manicures and pedicures are more susceptible, especially if the cuticles are trimmed. With a nail infection, the nail thickens and becomes brittle. If the infection spreads, the entire nail becomes discolored and may even lift from the nail bed. These infections may respond to oral or topical medication.

Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor can appear anywhere on the body and causes discoloration of the skin. Like other forms of tinea, the fungus thrives in warm, moist conditions and is contagious. The rash appears as pink, white or brown with a powdery coating. The rash affects the top-most layer of skin and responds well to topical medication. However, severe cases may require oral medication.

Yeast Infections (Cutaneous Candidiasis)

A yeast infection of the skin is the same organism that infects the vagina. There is always a small amount of yeast living in the mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina and intestines and, in most cases, beneficial bacteria keeps the yeast in check. However, immune problems, medications and illness can disrupt the bacteria-yeast balance, leaving room for a candida infection. The infection presents as a red, itchy rash in moist areas of the body. The infection responds to topical antifungals and severe cases may require oral medication.