What is ringworm?

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by fungus that can affect the scalp, skin, fingers, toenails, or feet.

The fungi which causes skin infection of this type can be divided into three groups according to their favourite hosts or sources: geophile (from soil sources), zoophile (from animals) and anthropophile (from humans). The fungi which are usually responsible for ringworm are zoophile and transmitted primarily through contact with animals. The scientific terms for ringworm are: Tinea corporis or Dermatophytosis corporis et extremitas.

What causes ringworm?

It is usually transmitted through contact with animals such as dogs, cats, calves, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Most mammals have at least one type of fungus and usually the animal and the fungus live in peaceful coexistence without the animal ever showing any symptoms. This, however, does not mean that the fungus cannot be transmitted to humans.

Children are particularly susceptible to ringworm and can pass it on easily to other children. In rare cases, adults can also become infected. Farmers and people who work with animals with fur are at increased risk.

What are the symptoms?

Typically scaly red patches on the skin, the size of which varies from a few millimetres to several centimetres in diameter. The patches are ring-shaped or oval and the edges are red and scaly. Inside the ring, the skin may be a bit scaly but looks normal in all other respects. Ringworm can be compared with fairy rings in a lawn. In both cases the fungus spreads from the centre of a circle whereby the activity seems to be confined to the outer edge. The infected areas are usually itchy.

Who is at risk?

• Children who come into close contact with animals
• Farmers
• People who work with animals with fur - fur farmers, laboratory staff, etc

How is it diagnosed?

The rash itself will usually provide ample evidence for the diagnosis. A scrape may be made for cultivation and a microscopic examination. Certain fungi become fluorescent when exposed to ultraviolet light (Wood's light).

What is the treatment?

Depending on the severity of the infection, ringworm can be treated by using an antifungal cream or by taking tablets.

Future prospects

If the infection is treated, it will disappear relatively quickly.

What can be done to prevent an infection?

Fungi which can cause a skin infection are present everywhere and are therefore difficult to avoid. However, if possible refrain from direct skin-to-skin contact with people or animals suspected of having a fungal infection.

Top Of Page