Overview
Ringworm (body) is a fungal infection that causes a rash on the skin. It typically appears as a ring-shaped, itchy rash with clearer skin in the middle. The fungus responsible for ringworm can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal, as well as through contact with contaminated objects or soil. The rash can be treated with antifungal medications applied to the skin or, for more severe cases, antifungal pills. To prevent the spread of ringworm, it's important to keep clean, avoid sharing personal items, and be cautious around infected animals or objects.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of ringworm (tinea corporis) of the body include a scaly, ring-shaped rash with itchiness, a clear or scaly area inside the ring, and sometimes slight bumps with varying colors. The rash can appear on the buttocks, trunk, arms, and legs. It can also present as a round, flat patch of itchy skin, overlapping rings, or slightly raised, expanding rings. If the rash does not improve with over-the-counter antifungal treatments within two weeks, it is recommended to consult a doctor for possible prescription medication.
Development
Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) is caused by a fungal infection. The infection can develop in different parts of the body, including the buttocks, trunk, arms, and legs. The rash appears as an itchy, circular or ring-shaped area with clearer skin in the middle. The rash often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. Mild cases may respond to antifungal medications applied to the skin, while more severe infections may require antifungal pills for several weeks.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if ringworm of the body is suspected and the rash does not begin to improve within two weeks of using an over-the-counter antifungal product. Prescription medication may be necessary.
Diagnosis
Your doctor might be able to diagnose ringworm simply by looking at it. They may also take skin scrapings from the affected area to examine under a microscope. In some cases, tests like blood tests, fluid or tissue culture, X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be performed to help diagnose gangrene or assess the extent of the infection.
Management and Treatment
Prevention
Ringworm of the body can be prevented by taking certain precautions. To reduce the risk of contracting ringworm, you can:
- Educate yourself and others: Be aware of the risk of ringworm from infected people or pets, and tell your children about ringworm, what to watch for, and how to avoid infection.
- Keep clean: Wash your hands often, and keep shared areas clean, especially in schools, child care centers, gyms, and locker rooms. If you participate in contact sports, shower right after practice or a match and keep your uniform and gear clean.
- Stay cool and dry: Avoid wearing thick clothing for long periods in warm, humid weather and excessive sweating.
- Avoid infected animals: Ask your veterinarian to check pets or other animals for ringworm.
- Don't share personal items: Don't let others use your clothing, towels, hairbrushes, sports gear, or other personal items, and don't borrow such items from others. By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of developing ringworm.
Treatment
Treatment for ringworm of the body typically involves antifungal medications. Mild ringworm often responds to over-the-counter antifungal creams or lotions applied directly to the skin. For more severe infections, you may need to take prescription antifungal pills for several weeks. Common antifungal medications include:
- Terbinafine (Lamisil)
- Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)
- Miconazole (Monistat, Dermazine)
- Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Fluconazole (Diflucan) It's important to follow your doctor or pharmacist's instructions regarding the duration of treatment and proper usage of the medication. In addition to medication, practicing good hygiene and avoiding sharing personal items can help prevent the spread of ringworm.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for ringworm of the body, you should:
- Make a list of your questions for the doctor, prioritizing the most important ones. Include questions about the cause, diagnosis, treatment options, whether you can wait for the condition to resolve on its own, and how to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Gather information about your symptoms and any recent exposure to possible sources of infection. Write down when you first noticed your symptoms, what the rash looks like, and whether it's painful or itchy. Also, note if you or someone in your household has had ringworm before, or if you have recently traveled abroad.
- Prepare a medical history, including any other conditions you are being treated for and any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking.
- Check with your doctor's office for any pre-appointment restrictions or instructions, such as isolation requirements, before your visit. Remember to follow the self-care tips for ringworm, such as keeping the affected area clean and dry, and applying over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream, or ointment as directed.