Ringworm (tinea infections)

Ringworm is a skin condition characterized by a ring-shaped red, scaly rash or patches with clearing centers. "Ringworm" is a misleading term that refers to the circular appearance of the fungal lesion. There are no worms involved.

• Different fungi, depending on their location on the child's body, can cause ringworm.
• The most common types of ringworm include athlete's foot, jock itch and ringworm of the scalp, nails and body.
• Because the fungi can live indefinitely on the skin, recurrences of ringworm are likely. Treatment may need to be repeated.