Ringworm on the scalp and body

On the body, ringworm often causes an itchy, scaly patch that gradually enlarges. On the scalp, it may cause scale, itching, broken hairs, patches of hair loss, or tender swelling. A body rash is a presentation of ringworm, but it does not establish that any particular rash is fungal. Scalp involvement can affect hair shafts and may spread through shared combs, hats, pillows, or close contact. A clinician may examine both the scalp and other skin areas and decide whether testing is useful.

Arrange assessment when the scalp is involved, especially if hair is breaking or the scalp is sore. Follow the prescribed plan; scalp infection commonly needs oral antifungal treatment, while limited body infection may be suitable for a topical product. Do not share combs, hats, towels, or pillowcases, and wash or clean items as advised. Keep affected skin dry and wash hands after applying medicine. Read about [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/) and [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/).

Seek medical review for scalp scale with hair loss, a boggy or painful swelling, extensive body lesions, or a rash that continues to spread. Prompt care is needed for fever, pus, rapidly increasing redness, or significant tenderness. Use [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) and [Scaly Skin](/symptoms/skin-scaling/) to describe accompanying symptoms when booking.

Ask whether the scalp and body findings are linked, whether close contacts need checking, how to clean shared items, and when hair or skin changes should be reassessed.