Is ringworm dangerous?

Ringworm, also called tinea corporis, is a fungal infection rather than a worm. It may form an expanding, scaly or raised-edged patch, sometimes with clearer skin toward the centre. The infection can occur on several body areas and may be itchy, mildly uncomfortable, or barely noticeable. Scratching can break the surface and allow a bacterial infection to develop. Fungi can also move to nearby skin or spread through shared towels, clothing, sports equipment, and close contact.

Keep the area clean and dry, wash your hands after touching it, and avoid sharing towels, clothing, hairbrushes, or bedding. Change damp clothing promptly and wash fabrics that contact the patch. A pharmacist or clinician can help choose an antifungal medicine; treatment may be a cream for limited skin infection or an oral medicine when the area is extensive, recurrent, or difficult to reach. Use the product for the advised course, even if the surface looks better sooner. Do not use a steroid cream alone on a suspected fungal rash because it can alter the appearance and allow infection to persist.

Arrange a clinical review if the rash is spreading, involves the face or genitals, affects a child, returns repeatedly, or does not improve with appropriate treatment. Seek prompt care for increasing warmth, swelling, pus, marked pain, fever, or rapidly worsening redness. These features may indicate a different diagnosis or a second infection rather than uncomplicated ringworm.

Could this be ringworm or another rash? Which treatment suits its location, and how long should I use it? Should household contacts, pets, or shared equipment be checked?