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Ringworm of the Body

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Ringworm of the body, known medically as tinea corporis (TIN-ee-uh kor-POR-us), is a fungal infection of the skin. Even with treatment, it may take weeks or sometimes months to go away; and you can contract the disease repeatedly.

Causes

The fungus that causes ringworm is easily spread from person to person. You can get it by sharing towels or shoes, and from using public shower stalls. Pets who are infected can spread the disease to people.

Signs/Symptoms

Ringworm can appear just about anywhere. On the body, it produces red, round, flat sores, sometimes accompanied by scaly skin. Sores may cause an itchy, scaly rash under the beard.

Care

The problem is treated with medicines applied to the infected skin or taken by mouth.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • Your doctor will probably prescribe a therapeutic cream or ointment. If you are using an ointment, wash and dry infected skin completely before applying it.
  • Do not scratch the sores.
  • If your pet has the same skin infection, have it treated by your veterinarian.

Call Your Doctor If...

  • The ringworm patch continues to spread after 7 days of treatment.
  • The rash is not gone in 4 weeks.
  • The area beyond the patch becomes red, warm, tender, and swollen.
  • You develop a high temperature.
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