What to know about ringworm in humans

Ringworm, or tinea corporis, in humans is a fungal infection that results from dermatophytes, which live in the dead top layer of skin. It grows best in warm, humid areas which make swimming pools, skin folds, and locker rooms excellent places for ringworm to grow.

Its symptoms include an itchy, red, inflamed circular rash with healthy skin in the middle of the circle, and it is not uncommon for more than one circle to appear. Each circle, or lesion, is less than 5 cm across and can occur singly or in a group of three or four. The circular rash may also have a scaly, moist, and itchy appearance. Small bumps that look like blisters and fluid-filled areas may also appear. Sometimes the rash does not appear in a circular shape, but just appears as a red, itchy rash. Ringworm often appears on the chest, stomach, legs, back, and arms. Ringworm can form on the hands that looks like athlete’s foot. The palms of the hands become thick, scaly, and dry and clammy. Open sores often develop between the fingers. If left untreated, ringworm can also spread throughout the body, infecting the feet, fingernails, toenails, scalp, and even beards.

The origin of the name “ringworm” comes from the appearance of the infection and, unlike the name, suggests no affiliation with the infection and an actual worm. The infection can spread in a variety of ways. It can result from direct skin-to-skin contact with another human being infected with ringworm, which is most commonly caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum. Person-to-person transmission of ringworm occurs through direct contact with an infected human ringworm sore and is the most common way people get ringworm.

Ringworm can also be caught from handling animals, usually cats or dogs, but it can also come from brushing horses, rabbits, and pigs. Microsporum canis, which is transmitted by cats and dogs, causes ringworm in humans. A surface or object, such as towels, bedding, clothing, or hairbrushes, can spread ringworm if an infected person has recently been in contact with it. It is rare, but still possible, for infected soil to transmit ringworm to humans. Anyone can get ringworm at any time, with a 20-30% lifetime chance of fungal infection.

There are multiple factors that can lead to an increased risk of tinea corporis infection; these include, but are not limited to: living in damp or crowded conditions, coming into close contact with an infected human or animal, sharing clothing, bedding or towels with an infected person, participating in contact sports (rugby or soccer). ), or have a weakened immune system.

To prevent yourself and others from getting ringworm, you should take the following steps: avoid direct contact with infected people and animals, wear loose-fitting clothing, keep clean, be aware of risk factors that cause and spread ringworm, stay dry and cool and do not share personal items. Contact your doctor if you have a rash that does not get better in two weeks, as you may need medical attention.