What ringworm can look like

The edge may be raised, dry, flaky, or slightly bumpy, while the centre looks less inflamed. Itching is common, but discomfort can be mild. On darker skin, redness may be subtle or look brown, grey, purple, or darker than the surrounding skin; on lighter skin, it may look pink or red.

Several patches can join together, and the rash can occur on the body, limbs, groin, feet, scalp, or nails. Because eczema, psoriasis, and contact reactions can copy parts of this pattern, a photograph or description cannot confirm ringworm by itself.

Take a clear photograph in good light if the appearance is changing, and note where it began and whether it is spreading. Keep the area dry, avoid scratching, and do not share towels, clothing, bedding, brushes, or sports equipment. Wash hands after touching the patch.

A pharmacist or clinician can advise on topical antifungal treatment when the infection is limited. More extensive disease or involvement of hair or nails may need oral antifungal treatment. Avoid using steroid cream alone on an undiagnosed scaly ring, because it can blur the pattern.

Arrange an assessment if the patch is spreading, recurrent, painful, cracked, draining, or unchanged after advised treatment. Seek prompt care for fever, rapidly spreading redness, marked swelling, or eye, scalp, or nail involvement. These features can require a different examination or treatment plan.

Ask whether the border should be tested, which look-alike conditions were considered, and how to monitor nearby skin. Ask when you should expect improvement and whether anyone sharing your home or equipment may need advice.