Diseases Caused by Fungi > Ringworm

Ringworm is a contagious disease of the skin caused by fungi. It is also called dermatophytosis or tinea. Despite the name, it is not caused by any worm.

Causative Agents:

The disease is caused by three main genera of fungi:

• Microsporum
• Trichophyton
• Epidermophyton

These fungi feed on keratin, the protein present in skin, hair, and nails.

Sites of Infection:

Predisposing Conditions:

The fungi grow best in warm and moist conditions. These infections therefore commonly occur in:

• Groin, armpits, beneath the breasts, and between toes
• Individuals with poor personal hygiene

Signs and Symptoms:

• Circular or ring-shaped, red, dry, and scaly lesions on the skin
• Intense itching at the affected site
• As the lesion spreads outward, the edges remain inflamed while the centre may become clearer
• Nails become thick, discoloured, and deformed (onychomycosis)
• Athlete's foot begins between the toes

Mode of Transmission:

• Contact with infected soil
• Sharing towels, clothes, combs and other personal articles with infected persons
• Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on physical/clinical examination of the lesion and its characteristic ring-shaped appearance.

Treatment:

Antifungal drugs are used for treatment, including:

• Nystatin
• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole

Prevention and Control:

• Maintain personal and public hygiene
• Keep skin clean and dry, especially in moist areas
• Avoid sharing towels, clothes, combs, socks, or footwear
• Wash clothes properly; hot washing with fungicidal soap can reduce contamination
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals