Overview
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin, scalp or nails — no worm is involved — that forms itchy, ring-shaped patches with raised edges. It thrives in heat, sweat and shared combs or clothing, and spreads easily among children. Antifungal treatment clears it; antibiotics and bleaching creams do not.
Symptoms
- Round, itchy patches with a raised, scaly edge
- Clearer skin in the centre of the ring
- Scaly patches and hair loss on the scalp (children)
- Itching and peeling between the toes (athlete's foot)
- Discoloured, thickened or crumbly nails
- Itchy rash in the groin (jock itch)
Causes & risk factors
- Fungal spores spread by skin contact
- Sharing combs, caps, towels or clothing
- Heat, sweating and tight, damp clothing
- Contact with infected pets or animals
Treatment & self-care
Most skin patches clear with an antifungal cream applied for two to four weeks — continue for a week after the rash fades; scalp and nail infections need antifungal tablets prescribed by a clinician. Keep the area clean and dry, wash and sun-dry clothing and bedding, and avoid sharing combs or towels. Steroid-containing "triple action" creams often worsen fungal infections.
See a doctor urgently if
- Scalp ringworm or any hair loss patch in a child
- Rash spreading despite antifungal cream
- Nail involvement
- Rash with pus, pain or fever