PDF Version Search Send-to-Friend Health Library Home ... Conditions InBrief Ringworm (Tinea Infection, Dermatophyte Infection) by Michelle Badash, MS Definition Causes Risk Factors ... Organizations Definition Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. Despite its name, it has nothing at all to do with worms. Fungal infection may appear on the skin, nails, hands, feet, or scalp. Both adults and children can be affected, but it occurs most commonly in children. Fungal infection of the feet is sometimes called athletes foot. In most cases athletes foot and ringworm are caused by the same type of fungus. Ringworm Rash www.nucleusinc.com Causes Ringworm is caused by microscopic skin fungi that live on the outer layer of the skin. You can get ringworm from direct skin-to-skin contact with infected people or pets. It is also transmitted by sharing hats and personal hair grooming items (e.g., hairbrushes, combs), and through contact with locker room floors, shower stalls, seats, or clothing used by an infected person. Risk Factors A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for developing ringworm include: | |
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