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Tinea corporis |
| Definition: |
| Tinea corporis is an infection of the body surface with mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Fungal infection - body; Infection - fungal - body; Tinea of the body; Tinea circinata; Ringworm - body
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, mold-like fungi (dermatophytes), and yeast-like fungi (such as Candida). Some of these are useful to the body. Others may multiply rapidly and form infections. Tinea corporis (often called ringworm of the body) is a common skin disorder, especially among children, but may occur in people of all ages. It is caused by mold-like fungi (dermatophytes). See also tinea capitis (involving the scalp), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea pedis (athlete's foot). |
| Symptoms: |
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| Signs and tests: |
| The diagnosis is primarily based on the appearance of the skin. A KOH (potassium hydroxide) test may be performed, in which skin scrapings are dissolved in KOH and then examined under a microscope. This test is commonly performed because it is easy to perform and results are immediately available. A skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination or culture to look for dermatophytes may be performed. This test may not be necessary in all cases. |
| Treatment: |
| Keep the skin clean and dry. Topical (applied to the skin) over-the-counter antifungal creams, such as those that contain miconazole, clotrimazole, or similar ingredients, are often effective in controlling ringworm. Severe or chronic infection may require further treatment by the health care provider. Oral antifungal medications may be given. Stronger, prescription topical antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole may be needed. Antibiotics may be needed to treat secondary bacterial infections. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Ringworm usually responds to topical treatment within 4 weeks. Severe or resistant cases usually respond promptly to oral antifungal therapy. |
| Complications: |
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| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call for an appointment with your health care provider if ringworm does not improve with self-care. |
| Prevention: |
| Good general hygiene helps prevent ringworm infections. Avoid contact with infected pets as much as possible. Clothing and household items, such as combs and bathroom surfaces, should be cleaned and dried thoroughly before reuse or use by another person to prevent the spread of the infection. Wash the hands thoroughly after contact with any fungal infection, including contact to treat the infection. |
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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