Ringworm is a fungal infection also known as Tinea Corporis. It is a fungal infection of the skin that can evolve anywhere on the body except for the palms, soles, and groin area.
Ringworm usually presents as a rash. The rash may appear as a patch and have a circular shape. The lesion has raised borders and has a tendency to be scaly. Sometimes it may also appear as if its color in the center is fading. Another important factor to help in identifying Ringworm is that the affected skin doesn’t tan when exposed to sunlight like the regular skin around it.
The treatment of Ringworm is achieved by using topical antifungal preparations and by taking preventive measures to avoid it spread. Over the counter medications like Lotrimin, Lamisil, and Clotrimazole can be used to effectively treat Ringworm. In resistant cases prescription creams like nystatin, ketoconazole, and econazole may be used. An alternative to topical management is fluconazole which comes in an oral tablet preparation and is also by prescription.
Prevention is the best way to avoid Ringworm infection. Ringworm is transmitted by contact so personal hygiene is very important in preventing spread. Besides contact with affected people, pet cats are also a common source of infection. People should avoid sharing towels (fungus loves a moist environment) especially at pools. Sharing clothes or even bedding with a person who has an active infection may increase the risk of transmission. Washing the clothes and bedding frequently while the person is being treated is also a good practice.
