Ringworm is very common, especially among children, and may be spread by skin-to-skin contact, as well as via contact with contaminated items such as hairbrushes. Ringworm spreads readily, as those infected are contagious even before they show symptoms of the disease. Humans can contract ringworm from animals; cats and dogs are often carriers. It should be noted that any contact sports such as wrestling has a risk of contracting the fungal infection through skin-to-skin contact.

Types

A number of species of fungi called dermatophytes cause ringworm. Members of the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum are the most common causative agents. These fungi attack various parts of the body and lead to the following conditions:

Tinea corporis affects the arms, legs, and trunk
Tinea capitis affects the scalp
Tinea cruris (jock itch) affects the groin area
Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) affects the feet
Tinea unguium affects the fingernails and toenails
Tinea versicolor

Symptoms and diagnosis

The most well known sign of ringworm is the appearance of one or more red raised itchy patches with defined edges. These patches are often lighter in the center, taking on the appearance of a ring. If the infected area involves the scalp or beard area, then bald patches may become evident. If the nails are affected, they may thicken, discolor, and finally crumble.

Doctors can diagnose ringworm on sight, or they may take a skin scraping. This is examined under a microscope, or put on an agar plate in a microbiology laboratory and allowed to grow. Some of the fungi fluoresce under a black light examination.

Topical antifungal drugs containing miconazole and clotrimazole, available by perscription or over the counter, are used to clear up the infection.

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Ringworm of the scalp—major health issue - Brief Article
From AORN Journal, 11/1/01

This year, approximately 1 million children will be infected with tinea capitis, a highly contagious disease better known as ringworm of the scalp, according to an Aug 16, 2001, news release. This disease is a fungal infection, and its incidence is increasing in the United States. Ringworm accounts for more than 90% of skin fungal infections in children less than 10 years of age in the United States.

Ringworm of the scalp, contrary to its name, is not a worm--it is a highly contagious fungal infection. Hair loss, itching, and dandruff are symptoms of this disease. It can be spread through direct contact and through indirect contact with combs, hats, and articles of clothing of infected individuals. Many people who become infected with the disease do not seek treatment or remain undiagnosed, which can lead to severe pain, permanent hair loss, scar formation on the scalp, missed days of school or work, and the potential of spreading the disease to others. According to the release, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 700,000 physician visits per year are made for ringworm of the scalp.

Even though children less than 10 years of age are at the greatest risk, anyone can be infected with ringworm. Researchers analyzed 1996 data and found that children between the ages of five and 18 made more than 77% of physician visits for ringworm. Those younger than five years of age accounted for 19% of visits, and those older than 18 years of age accounted for 4% of visits. African-Americans are most at risk, as they accounted for 81% of 1996 visits.

Early recognition and treatment are the keys to slowing and preventing the spread of ringworm. Shampoos and other topical treatments alone are not an effective cure. According to the release, an oral antifungal is the only effective cure. To prevent the spread of the disease, children should be taught not to share communal items, such as combs, barrettes, and stuffed animals.

Ringworm of the Scalp: Major Public Health Problem, Say Healthcare Professionals (news release, Skillman, NJ: PR Newswire, Aug 16, 2001) http://www.newsdesk.com (accessed 21 Aug 2001).

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