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Ringworm Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Treatment of Ringworm

Ringworm, also known as “Tinea, � is an infection of the skin, characterized by a reddish to brownish raised or bumpy patch of skin that may be lighter in the center, giving the appearance of a “ring.� Contrary to its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by parasitic fungi (Dermatophytosis). It can exist anywhere on the body.Ringworm of the skin starts as a red, scaly patch or bump. Ringworm tends to be very itchy and uncomfortable. Over time, it may begin to look like a ring or a series of rings with raised, bumpy, scaly borders (the center is often clear).

Causes of Ringworm Ringworm is contagious. It can be passed from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact or by contact with contaminated items such as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces. You can also catch ringworm from pets that carry the fungus. Cats are common carriers.

Many bacteria and fungi live on your body. Some of these are useful to you and your body. Others can multiply rapidly and form infections. Ringworm occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies anywhere on your skin, scalp, or nails.Most pediatricians do not recommend isolation of afflicted children. Covering the rash with a bandage and a layer of clothing is usually enough to prevent its spread.

What are the symptoms of ringworm Ringworm of the skin causes itching, redness of the skin, and circular sores. The sores usually have a red edge and a clear center. Rings may form around sores. Skin could become lighter or darker on the sides of the face, the neck, back, and chest. This is most common in teens and young adults.

Ringworm of the body shows up as a flat, round patch anywhere on the skin except for the scalp and feet. The groin is a common area of infection (groin Ringworm). As the rash gradually expands, its center clears to produce a ring. More than one patch might appear, and the patches can overlap. The area is sometimes itchy.

Diagnosis of Ringworm Diagnosis must rule out other possible causes of the signs and symptoms, which may include eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis. A microscopic examination of some lesion scrapings usually will confirm tinea infection. This is called a KOH (potassium hydroxide) preparation. Culture of the affected area, which may take weeks, may help identify the infecting organism.

Treatment of Ringworm Imidazoles (clotrimazole or Lotrimin, miconazole or Micatin, ketoconazole or Nizoral, econazole or Spectazole, oxiconazole or Oxistat, and sulconazole or Exelderm) Side effects from oral medications include gastrointestinal upset, rash and abnormal liver functioning. Taking other medications, such as antacid therapies for ulcer disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), may interfere with the absorption of these drugs. Systemic treatment: Some fungus infections do not respond well to external applications. Examples include scalp fungus and fungus of the nails. To penetrate these areas, oral medications are necessary.

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