Alternatively, the infection can spread through contact with infected animals or humans. Both humans and animals can contract ringworm following direct contact with infected soil. These fungi include Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epiudermophyton and may live for an extended period, similar to spores within soil. Three different types of fungi are deemed the primary ringworm causes. Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection caused by common mold-like parasites that live on cells in the outer layer of your skin.
#Does ringworm itch skin
The infection initially appears as red patches on affected areas of the skin and may later spread to other parts of the body. Patients who have previously experienced athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), or scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) have already had ringworm (tinea corporis). Ringworm in humans can appear anywhere on the body, including the palms, soles, scalp, groin, and nails. Ringworm is common among both humans and animals alike. The rash typically features a ring shape with a raised, scaly border that snakes its way around the edge of the rash. The name "ringworm" likely comes from the ringworm rash produced when a patient is infected. In fact, no worms are involved in this condition. Contrary to what its name may suggest, if you have ringworm, you do not have a disease caused by worms. As with candidiasis, folliculitis, and intertrigo, ringworm is a type of fungal infection. Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophyte infection, or tinea corporis, is a skin infection.