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TINEA CORPORIS
(Ringworm)

This patient information and photograph on Tinea Corporis (Ringworm) is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida.  This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?    Tinea corporis is an infection of the skin that can occur at any age. In common terms this disorder is known as "ringworm". Typically it appears as a large, red, ring shaped or circular rash on the skin. Ringworm can occur anywhere on the skin and it commonly itches.

What causes it?    Although called ringworm, this infection is not caused by a worm. Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin, and it can be caused by many different types of fungi. Although the fungus can be "caught" from many sources, puppies and kittens are very common carriers of the infection.

Is it dangerous?    For the typical healthy person ringworm is a harmless infection. It is not related to cancer and it does not involve internal organs.

Can it be cured?    The fungus commonly responds to treatment, but unfortunately re-infection is common.

What home care should I use?

  1. If it is in moist or damp areas of the skin you may want to blow dry 2-3 times a day.  

  2. Have new puppies or kittens examined by the vet if you think this is the source of the infection.

  3. Do not use steroid creams on the rash they will only make it worse.

  4. Recurrences can be treated with Lamisil cream this does not need a prescription and  is very effective for control. More info/Order Here.

Will it spread?    Untreated fungal infections often spread. Treatment can help to prevent spreading.

Is it contagious?    Yes, but once a patient is on appropriate treatment no further precautions need to be taken. Treated children can go to school with little danger of infecting others. Pets that are infected need to be treated by a veterinarian.

© John L. Meisenheimer, M.D.  2004                                   WWW.OrlandoSkinDoc.com

 

Last modified: 08/27/06