Ringworm goes by different names depending on which body part it affects. Ringworm on your body is called tinea corporis. This type of ringworm affects your arms, legs, torso and face.

Understanding the Context

Ringworm is treated with antifungal medication available either over the counter or as a prescription. But it most often occurs on the feet, groin, nails, body, and scalp. Treatment depends on what part of the body is infected. It may include antifungal cream, shampoo, or medicine by mouth.

Key Insights

Some types of tinea infection can be prevented if you don't share personal hygiene products, clothing, or shoes and keep your skin dry. Athlete's foot (also known as "ringworm of the foot", [2] tinea pedum, [3] and "moccasin foot" [4]) is a common and contagious skin disease that causes itching, scaling, flaking, and sometimes blistering of the affected areas. Tinea amiantacea (usually referred to as pityriasis amiantacea) - this is a scalp condition that is usually due to either psoriasis or severe seborrhoeic dermatitis. Tinea of the scalp, tinea capitis, is also common. The medical term for each type of ringworm starts with 'tinea' followed by the Latin name for the part of the body infected.

Final Thoughts

Tinea are skin diseases caused by fungus like ringworm or jock itch. Some are treated with over the counter items and others require prescription. Ringworm, also known as tinea, is a common fungal infection of the skin. It can affect both humans and animals. The infection is caused by fungi, known as dermatophytes, that thrive on the skin, hair, and nails. Symptoms of ringworm include itching, redness, and a characteristic ring-shaped rash.