Ringworm on BodyMedical Author:
Allison Harvey, MD
Medical Editor:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.
Ringworm on Body OverviewRingworm (or tinea corporis) is a common fungal infection resulting from dermatophytes, which are microscopic organisms that live on the dead outer layer of skin. The fungus that causes the ring-shaped rash remains outside of your body at all times. There is no actual worm involved. Ringworm can affect anyone at anytime. The estimated lifetime risk of developing any superficial fungal infection is 20%-30%. If you live in a warm, humid climate, have direct contact with active lesions on someone else (or a pet), or have a weakened immune system (as a consequence of medical problems such as diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS), your risk for developing ringworm is higher. Viewer Comments & ReviewsRingworm on Body - Describe Your ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with ringworm. What treatments helped? |
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Ringworm on Body
Ringworm on Scalp Overview
Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) is a very common fungal infection among children throughout the world. Fungal organisms known as dermatophytes cause scalp ringworm by superficially infecting certain types of tissue found in hair, skin, and nails. This forms the crusty, scaly patches associated with scalp ringworm.
- In the United States, an estimated 3-8% of the population is affected by scalp ringworm. Some people can be carriers of the organism and spread it to others in the household. In other countries, an estimated 9.6% of people are affected, and nearly 40% can be carriers.
- Children aged 4-14 years are most likely to develop ringworm of the scalp, although it can occasionally appear in adults.
- Scalp ringworm occurs most frequently in urban areas among people with low incomes living in overcrowded quarters.
- ...
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Tinea »
The dermatophytes are a group of fungi (ringworm) that invade the dead keratin of skin, hair, and nails.
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