Ringworm Definition - Microbiology Key Term

Definition

Ringworm is a common fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophytes. It presents as a red, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle.

Ringworm is caused by fungi from the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton.
It is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal.
The infection can affect various parts of the body including the scalp (tinea capitis), feet (tinea pedis), and groin (tinea cruris).
Topical antifungal creams like clotrimazole or oral antifungal medication such as terbinafine are commonly used treatments.
Diagnosis often involves microscopic examination and culturing of skin scrapings.

Dermatophytes: A group of fungi that cause infections of the skin, hair, and nails.

Tinea: A term used to describe fungal infections caused by dermatophytes, named according to their location on the body.

Antifungal Drugs: Medications used to treat fungal infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of fungi.