Also known as Dermatophytosis or ringworm infection Ringworm is NOT caused by a worm, its caused by fungi....! Fungi causing these type of infection are also known as Dermatophytes. The ringowrm infections are all very similar and have similar symptoms, and incidences, and can be diagnosed and treated in a similar manner.
	ENTRY INTO THE BODY Spores produced by the fungi are lodged in wounds or cuts Once established on the skin, it spreads out in rings Warm damp areas increase the risk of infection
	CLINICAL FEATURES Inflammation and irritation of the epithelium Possible allergic reaction General characteristic of all ringworm infections are circles of red blistering or scaling
	TRANSMISSION Fungi remains in sloughed off skin and hair for months, increasing risk of spread to others. Spread to different parts of the body is via scratching. Dogs and cats can be infected with ringworm, too, and they can pass it to people through direct contact
	RISK GROUPS Young children are most likely to get ringworm Common in those sharing facilities e.g.swimming pools (foot ringworm) Those sharing combs, brushes (head ringworm)
	INCIDENCE AND GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION They are the most common of the human fungal diseases, occurring worldwide.
	DIAGNOSIS Examination of skin biopsy under microscope. Microscopic examination of skin and nail scrapings, and hair. Isolation of the fungus from infected tissue.
	TREATMENT AND PREVENTION Personal hygiene important in preventing spread Often an acute inflammatory response clears infection spontaneously Topical ointments- miconazole, tolnaftate, clotrimazole for 2-4 weeks. Griseofulvin and itraconazole oral fungal agents if appropriate.
	Types of Cutaneous Infection Organisms causing Cutaneous Infections Main Mycoses Menu