Ringworm Slideshow Pictures Head Lice Slideshow Pictures Scabies Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Allison Harvey, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa 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.

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Ringworm on Body Symptoms and Signs

The signs of ringworm look like its name. It forms a red, elevated, rapidly growing, ringlike sore on the skin. The center of the ring may be clear. The sore itself may contain scales, crust, or fluid-filled areas. Itching and pain may accompany the sore (doctors call them lesions). Each lesion is less than 5 cm across (about 2 inches) and occurs alone or in groups of three or four.

• Lesions commonly are found on the trunk, legs, arms, neck, and face (referred to as tinea faciei).



• This type of ringworm does not involve the bearded area, scalp, groin (jock itch), hands, or feet (athlete's foot).