Ringworm is a common skin fungus that affects people of all ages, though is seen particularly often in children. It often is transmitted from household pets to humans through regular interaction. Diagnosing ringworm is a straightforward process, though there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind.
Step 1
Look for round rashes anywhere on the skin. If you are examining another person, wear gloves so you do not catch the fungus yourself. You can easily spot these rashes because they'll be round with scaly edges. Often, they'll take on a ring shape, with a patch of clear, healthy skin in the middle.
Step 2
Place the area of the body with the rash under an ultraviolet light. If the ringworm fungus is present, it likely will glow.
Step 3
Part the hair and examine the scalp. Keep an eye out for tiny sores that look like pimples as well as patches of hair that have fallen out.
Step 4
Inspect your pets and other family members for signs of ringworm. This fungus is easily transmittable, making treatment of everyone who shows signs of a rash or itchiness imperative to prevent further spreading.
Things You'll Need
- Gloves
- Ultraviolet light
