Ringworm
Also known as: Tinea Corporis, Dermatophytosis
Fungal infection - not a worm. Creates circular red patches with clearing centers. Contagious but easily treated.
What to look for
Side-by-side comparison
Normal skin
No ring shapes
Ringworm
Ring-shaped, scaly border
Ringworm (tinea corporis) is a fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophyte fungi. Despite its name, no worm is involved - the name comes from the characteristic ring-shaped rash with a raised, scaly border and clearing center.
Ringworm is contagious and spreads through direct skin contact with infected people or animals (cats and dogs are common sources), contaminated surfaces (gym equipment, shower floors), or shared items (towels, clothing).
The classic presentation is a round or oval, red, scaly patch that gradually enlarges while the center clears, creating a ring shape. The border is typically raised, red, and scaly. Multiple rings can be present and may overlap.
Treatment with topical antifungals (clotrimazole, terbinafine, miconazole) applied for 2-4 weeks is effective for most cases. Extensive or resistant infections may require oral antifungal medication (terbinafine, itraconazole).
Quick self-check
Does this look like ringworm? Answer 2 questions.
Is there a ring-shaped patch with a raised border and clearing center?
Have you had contact with animals, gym equipment, or someone with a rash?
Risk factors
- Direct contact with infected people or animals
- Contact sports (wrestling is high-risk)
- Shared changing rooms, showers, gym equipment
- Warm, humid environments
- Weakened immune system
- Tight, non-breathable clothing
When to see a dermatologist
- ⚠Ring-shaped rash not improving after 2 weeks of OTC antifungal
- ⚠Widespread involvement
- ⚠Ringworm on the scalp (requires oral treatment)
- ⚠Immunocompromised patients with suspected ringworm
Often confused with
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Full ABCDE check →Frequently asked questions
Is ringworm actually caused by a worm?
No. Ringworm is a fungal infection - the name comes from the ring-shaped rash. It is caused by dermatophyte fungi that live on the outer layer of skin, not by any parasite.
How long does ringworm take to clear?
With proper antifungal treatment, ringworm typically improves within 1-2 weeks and clears in 2-4 weeks. Continue treatment for the full recommended duration even after the rash looks better to prevent recurrence.