Ringworm is actually caused by a fungus rather than a worm. A dermatological condition caused by the ringworm fungus that affects the skin and is known as dermatophytosis. Ringworm infects the surface of the skin. There are several types of ringworm which affect specific areas of the body. More broadly, diseases caused by a fungus are called mycoses.
Types
There are six main types of ringworm. Tinea pedis occurs on the feet and is also known as athlete's foot. Tinea corporis only occurs on larger skin areas of the body. Tinea unguium affects the nails. Tinea cruris occurs in the groin area, and is commonly known as jock itch. Tinea capitis affects the scalp. Tinea manus is ringworm of the hand.
Causes
The ringworm fungus is very contagious and spread by direct contact. In infants, ringworm is typically contracted from the mother or other members of the family. Household pets can also carry and spread ringworm. The fungus might also be transferred from objects such as towels and clothing. Ringworm may be more common in animals and humans with immune systems that have been weakened by other disease.
Identifying Ringworm
The two most common types of ringworm or tinea infections in children are tinea corporis and tinea capitis. Tinea corporis has a characteristically circular appearance on the skin. Affected skin in tinea infections present patches which are commonly scaly, itchy, reddened or painful. It is important to see a qualified physician as soon as possible if any of these symptoms appear. To correctly diagnose ringworm, your physician may take a small scraped sample for testing.
Treatments
Anti-fungal agents are commonly used to treat ringworm. These are either topically or orally administered. Unless the infection is severe, topically applied medications are the preferred treatment. The exception is tinea capitis, which may require more aggressive oral medication. Commonly prescribed medications for ringworm are drug families known as Azoles or Allylamines. Other treatment drugs may include Ciclopirox, Griseofulvin and Haloprogin. Discuss all treatment options with your family physician, dermatologist or pediatrician to understand what option is best for your infant.
Preventing Ringworm
As ringworm is spread via direct contact, limit skin-to-skin exposure with infected persons or pets. Using topical treatments may also aid in preventing the spread of ringworm by acting as a barrier. Check pets regularly for patches of hair loss which may indicate the presence of ringworm. Always wear footwear at pools, and other public facilities. Make sure any items which come into contact with your infant's skin are thoroughly clean and disinfected.
References
- "Understanding Pathophysiology"; Sue E. Huether, R.N., Ph.D., and Kathryn L. McCance, R.N., Ph.D.;2008
- Centers For Disease Control and Prevention: National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne, and Enteric Diseases: Dermatophytes (Ringworm)
- "Pharmacology for Nursing Care"; Richard A. Lehne, Ph.D.; 2007
