Summary about Disease
Dermatophytosis, commonly known as ringworm, is a fungal infection of the skin, hair, and nails. Despite its name, it is not caused by worms. It's caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. The infection is characterized by itchy, scaly, ring-shaped rashes, although the appearance can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection.
Symptoms
Itchy, scaly, raised patches.
Ring-shaped rash (not always present).
Redness.
Cracking, scaling, or peeling skin, especially between the toes ("athlete's foot").
Hair loss (if the scalp is affected).
Thickening or discoloration of nails (if nails are affected).
Causes
Dermatophytosis is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungi that thrives on keratin, the protein that makes up skin, hair, and nails. The fungi can be transmitted through:
Direct contact with an infected person or animal.
Contact with contaminated objects (e.g., clothing, towels, bedding).
Contact with infected soil (less common).
Medicine Used
Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, which can be topical or oral, depending on the severity and location of the infection.
Topical antifungals: Creams, lotions, or ointments containing ingredients like clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, or ketoconazole. These are commonly used for mild skin infections.
Oral antifungals: Medications like griseofulvin, terbinafine, itraconazole, or fluconazole. These are typically prescribed for more severe or widespread infections, or when topical treatments are ineffective (e.g., nail infections, scalp infections).
Is Communicable
Yes, dermatophytosis is highly contagious. It can spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or indirectly through contaminated objects.
Precautions
Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially after touching animals or being in public places.
Avoid sharing personal items: Don't share towels, clothing, bedding, or sports equipment.
Keep skin clean and dry.
Wear sandals or shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pool areas.
If you have a pet, have it checked by a veterinarian if you suspect it has ringworm.
Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated.
How long does an outbreak last?
With proper treatment, skin infections typically clear up within 2-4 weeks. Nail infections can take several months or even a year to clear. Without treatment, the infection can persist for months or even years.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical examination: A doctor can often diagnose dermatophytosis by examining the skin, hair, or nails.
Skin scraping: A sample of skin, hair, or nail is scraped and examined under a microscope to identify the presence of fungi.
Fungal culture: A sample is placed in a culture medium to allow the fungi to grow, which can help identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection.
Wood's lamp examination: A special ultraviolet light (Wood's lamp) can be used to examine the skin or hair. Some types of dermatophytes will fluoresce under the light.
Timeline of Symptoms
The incubation period (time between exposure and symptoms) varies. Symptoms typically develop within 4-14 days after exposure.
Early Stages: Initially, a small, red, itchy patch appears.
Progression: The patch gradually expands, often forming a ring-like shape with a raised, scaly border and a clearer center.
Later Stages: If untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body or to other people. Hair loss may occur in affected areas of the scalp. Nails may become thickened, discolored, and brittle.
Important Considerations
Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.
Consult a doctor if the infection is severe, widespread, or does not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
Be aware that some skin conditions can mimic dermatophytosis, so it's important to get an accurate diagnosis from a doctor.
If you have a weakened immune system, you may be more susceptible to dermatophytosis and may require more aggressive treatment.
Avoid scratching the affected area, as this can spread the infection.