Ringworm is a general term used to refer to a number of different contagious fungal infections of the skin, scalp or nails. The condition is known as ringworm because it can leave a ring-like red rash on the skin. It does not have anything to do with worms.
Ringworm is a very common condition. It's estimated that between 10 and 20% of all people will experience at least one fungal infection during their lifetime.
Ringworm is classified according to which part of the body is affected. The most common types of ringworm are:
- ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis),
- ringworm of the skin (tinea corporis),
- groin infections (tinea cruris, also often known as jock itch),
- fungal nail infections, and
- ringworm of the feet (more commonly known as athlete's foot).
Scalp ringworm
Scalp ringworm is most common in pre-pubescent children and is relatively rare in adults. This is because during puberty a chemical change occurs in the glands in your scalp, and these changes make your scalp less attractive to fungi.
Children who live in urban environments, particularly Afro-Caribbean children, are most at risk of getting scalp ringworm. The reason that the condition is more common in urban environments is that when there is a large number of people living in close proximity, it gives ringworm more of an opportunity to spread from person to person. However, it is uncertain why Afro-Caribbean children are more at risk.
Body ringworm
Body ringworm can affect people of all ages. However, the exact number of cases that occur in England each year is unknown because many people treat body ringworm using over-the-counter (OTC) medication and they do not report the symptoms to their GP.
Groin infections
Groin infections most commonly affect young men. As with body ringworm, the exact number of cases that occur in England every year is unknown.
Prognosis
Most cases of ringworm are mild and can be successfully treated using anti-fungal medication. Serious complications such as permanent hair loss or scarring are rare.
Ringworm is contagious, so it's important to take basic hygiene measures in order to prevent the spread of infection. These include not sharing towels or clothes. See the prevention section for more details about this.
