Ringworm on a person: what to know

Ringworm has no connection with worms. It often forms a round or oval patch with a more active, raised edge and a clearer centre, although appearances vary. The area may itch, shed fine scale, crack, or spread outward. A similar-looking rash can come from eczema, irritation, or another infection, so a clinician may examine the skin and sometimes test a scale sample.

The fungus can pass through skin contact or shared towels, clothing, bedding, hair tools, and sports equipment. Scratching can move it to nearby skin and may damage the surface.

Use an appropriate antifungal medicine exactly as directed and keep using it for the advised course, even if the border settles early. See the page on Topical Antifungal Treatment for medicines applied to the skin; Oral Antifungal Treatment may be considered when infection is extensive, recurrent, or difficult to reach.

Wash hands after touching the area, keep skin dry, avoid sharing personal items, and launder towels, clothes, and bedding regularly. Do not apply a steroid cream alone to an undiagnosed rash, because it can change the appearance and allow fungus to persist. Keep the patch covered with loose clothing when practical.

Arrange a medical assessment if the rash involves the scalp, face, nails, or genitals, covers a broad area, keeps spreading, or has not started settling with correct treatment. Seek prompt care for pus, marked swelling, increasing warmth, severe pain, fever, or rapidly worsening skin.

Ask whether the appearance fits ringworm, whether a skin scraping is useful, which treatment suits the location, and how to prevent reinfection from household members or pets.