Ringworm

Ringworm is a contagious, fungal skin condition that appears as a rash in reddish-pink, scaly, circular patches. Athlete’s foot is the most common form of ringworm, although the disease can also affect the scalp and other parts of the body.

Ringworm is caused by a fungus that reproduces on the cells in the top layer of the skin. The fungus thrives in warm and moist conditions. Ringworm can spread from skin-to-skin contact with another person or an animal, including pets. Ringworm can also spread by touching objects that have been touched by an infected person or animal. You can also get ringworm from walking barefoot on soil infected with the fungus.

A variety of over-the-counter topical medications are available to treat milder cases of ringworm. If these treatments don’t fully treat the condition, your dermatologist may prescribe prescription antifungal medications that you apply directly to your skin. Antifungal pills taken orally may also be prescribed to treat severe cases.

Your dermatologist may also recommend careful attention to personal hygiene – especially keeping hands and feet clean. Avoid using personal items that belong to others, including combs, hairbrushes and bath towels, to prevent contracting or spreading ringworm.

If you are concerned about ringworm, click here to schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists or walk into Walk-in Dermatology at your convenience for immediate evaluation.