Ringworm

Question 1

What are the different names for when ringworm affects different parts of the body?

Answer 1

Tinea capitis
Scalp

Tinea pedis
Feet (athletes foot)

Tinea cruris
Groin

Tinea corporis
Body

Onychomycosis
Fungal nail infection

Question 2

What is the most common type of fungus that causes ringworm?

Answer 2

Trichophyton

Question 3

How does ringworm present?

Answer 3

Itchy
Erythematous
Scaly
Well demarcated
Circular shaped rings

Question 4

How does tinea capitis present?

Answer 4

Dermarcated hair loss
Itching
Dryness
Erythema

More common in children than adults

Question 5

How does tinea pedis present?

Answer 5

White or red
Flaky
Cracked
Itchy patches between toes
Toes may smell

Question 6

How does onychomycosis present?

Answer 6

Thickened, discoloured and deformed nails

Question 7

How is ringworm diagnosed?

Answer 7

Clinical diagnosis

Question 8

How is ringworm treated?

Answer 8

Anti-fungal medications
- Clotrimazole and miconazole creams
- Ketoconazole shampoo
- Fluconazole and itraconazole
- Daktacort

Question 9

What advice should patients be given on ringworm?

Answer 9

Loose clothing
Keep area clean and dry
Avoid sharing towels, clothing and bedding
Separate towel for feet
Avoid scratching
Clean dry socks daily

Question 10

What is tinea incognito?

Answer 10

Fungal infection that is less recognisable due to treatment with steroids

May confuse fungal infection for dermatitis and treat with steroids which confuses the appearance