Ringworm is a common skin disease. It is caused by fungi. It is so called because the fungus often produces a ring-shaped infection. The fungi of this disease live and multiply on the surface of the skin and feed on keratin, the horny protein constituting the major part of the outer layer of the skin and of the hair and the nail. The lesions are usually round or ring shaped and can be either dry or moist. They might cause several patches on the skin.
Ringworm is also called tinea. This word indicates the part of the skin affected by it, e.g. ringworm of the scalp, beard, and nails are called as Tinea capitis, Tinea barbane and Tinea unguium respectively. Similarly ringworms of the body, groin, hands and feet are referred to as Tinea magnum and Tinea pedis. Tinea pedis is also referred to as athlete’s foot. This ringworm can be dry or moist. Watery ringworm may be found between the toes and fingers of the foot. The dry type may involve the sole and sides of the foot. The scalp ringworm is very contagious and may cause an epidemic among school children.
Ringworms are usually controlled by various fungicides sold as medicines by pharmacists. Fungicide is a substance that kills fungi and can be used for the treatment of ringworm. The infected area should be kept dry and powdered. Limited exposure to ultraviolet light may also be helpful.