What should you know about kurap (ringworm)?

Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm. Fungi grow in the outer layer of skin and may produce an itchy, scaly border with clearer skin toward the centre. Infection can occur on the body, groin, feet, scalp, or nails, and it can pass through close contact or shared towels, clothing, sports equipment, and animals.

A [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) or [Scaly Skin](/symptoms/skin-scaling/) has many possible causes. A clinician may consider the location, shape, contacts, pets, and response to treatment; testing can be useful when the diagnosis is uncertain or the infection is extensive.

Keep affected skin clean and dry, wash hands after touching it, and avoid sharing towels, clothing, brushes, or bedding. Wash fabrics regularly and check household pets if they have bald or scaly patches. Do not use a steroid cream alone on a suspected fungal rash, because it can mask the appearance and allow infection to spread.

A limited skin infection may be treated with [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/). Infection involving the scalp, nails, widespread skin, or areas that do not respond may need [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/), prescribed after assessment.

Arrange medical review when the rash involves the scalp, face, nails, or a large area, or when it keeps spreading despite appropriate treatment. Seek prompt care for pus, rapidly increasing pain, fever, extensive swelling, or involvement around the eyes. Children, people with reduced immunity, and anyone with repeated infections may need earlier assessment.

Ask whether the pattern is consistent with [Ringworm](/conditions/ringworm/), whether a skin sample is needed, and which body sites require treatment. Ask how long to continue the medicine, how to clean shared items, and whether close contacts or pets should be checked.