Ringworm
Ringworm is a common skin disorder, especially among children, but it may affect people of all ages. Although its name suggests otherwise, it is caused by a fungus, not a worm. Also called tinea corporis, ringworm of the body is closely related to other skin conditions with similar names. Tinea is a type of fungus, and corporis is the Latin word for "body." Ringworm can affect skin on your body (tinea corporis), arms, legs, trunk and face. Often, there are several patches of ringworm on your skin at once.
· Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) - This form affects the moist areas between your toes and sometimes on your foot itself.
· Jock itch (tinea cruris) - This form affects your genitals, inner thighs and buttocks.
· Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) - This form is most common in children and involves red, itchy patches on the scalp, leaving bald patches.
Black Dot Tinea Capitis - Is a very rare form of ringworm of the scalp. Although it is not considered to be very serious, the disease is responsible for causing few noticeable symptoms, thus being more difficult to detect during medical examinations. This form of ringworm of the scalp causes the occurrence of tiny black spots which are sometimes spread over the entire surface of the scalp. The infection causes no inflammation or redness, and it rarely involves deterioration of the hair or scarring. This type of ringworm of the scalp is considered to be contagious and thus temporary isolation may be recommended to all affected patients. However, the disorder can be easily overcome with local treatments consisting of specific antifungal agents.
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.
Ringworm is characterized by:
· Itchy, red circle of rash with healthy looking skin in the middle
· Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze
· The patches often have sharply-defined edges.
Signs and tests
Your doctor will diagnose ringworm primarily based on the appearance of the skin. If tests are needed, the fungus may appear florescent when your skin is examined with a blue light (called a Wood's lamp) in a dark room. A more definitive diagnosis can be made by scraping the affected area of skin and examining the cells under a microscope.
Treatment
Ringworm of the body usually responds well to self-care within 4 weeks without having to see a doctor.
· Keep your skin clean and dry.
· Apply over-the-counter antifungal or drying powders, lotions, or creams. Those that contain miconazole, clotrimazole, or similar ingredients are often effective.
· Wash sheets and nightclothes every day while infected.
A severe or persistent infection may require treatment by a doctor. Antifungal medications may be given and are necessary if your hair is infected. Prescription antifungal skin medications are stronger than over-the-counter products and may be needed. Antibiotics may also be needed to treat related bacterial infections. Infected pets also should be treated.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001439.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/
http://www.vh.org/pediatric/patient/pediatrics/cqqa/ringworm.html
