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Ringworm -An itchy fungal infection affecting the skin

© 2012 Right Doctor

What is Ringworm?

Ringworm or tinea is an itchy condition of the skin that presents as circular or arc like patches with some clearing in the centre and activity at the margins. Scratching of the patches may result in mild sticky discharge

Areas you can get ringworm

Warm and moist areas such as folds

Nails Scalp(mostly in children)

Feet Groin area

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Symptoms

• If ringworm affects your nails, they will become discoloured,

thick, and even crumble

• Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may have discharge

• Patches tend to have sharply-defined edges

• Often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the

centre. This may look like a ring

• If ringworm affects your hair, you will have bald patches

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Cause• Ringworm is caused by fungi dermatophyte and not by a worm as the name suggests!• It is a common problem in tropics – in particular in summers and rains.• Obese men staying or working in hot and

humid climate frequently have groin affection.

• Likewise those wearing closed shoes all the time and with increased sweating are more likely to get ringworm of the feet.

• Persons with diabetes and patients on certain drugs like steroids have a risk of more wide spread disease.

Ringworm is highly contagious. One can catch ringworm if you touch someone who has the infection, or if you come into contact with items contaminated by the fungus, such

as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces. You can also catch ringworm from pets that carrying fungus. Cats are common carriers.

Dermatophyte – under microscope

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Diagnosis• If the symptoms appear a dermatologist should be consulted as

soon as possible• Typical itchy patches that are seasonal are characteristic.• Skin test (scrape) for fungus confirms the diagnosis. Some

patients may need blood test for sugar.

Skin Scrape Test

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TreatmentApart from specific treatment prescribed by the dermatologist, which usually last for 2-4 weeks for skin patches and prolonged for nail involvement, following general measures are important in treatment and prevention of recurrence which are common.

Keep the area dry bya) Exposing the affected part to cool and dry air.b) Using anti-fungal talc freely..

Wear comfortable cotton clothingAvoid wearing synthetic clothes

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Prevention

Do not share

Do not share personal items Pets with bald areas need immediate vet attention and should be avoided

• School going children should be educated about ringworm as they are most susceptible

• Wear slippers or sandals in locker rooms and public pool and bathing areas.• Keep your skin and feet clean and dry

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Disclaimer : The intent of the information provided by Right Doctor is to increase public awareness and should not be treated as a medical advice. A physician should be consulted for proper medical guidance