What causes ringworm in humans?

Like many communicable diseases, ringworm can be passed between humans through skin-to-skin contact. The fungus that causes the infection lives on the cells of the epidermis. Touching the infected area usually results in transmission of the fungus, and a person can expect to develop the characteristic symptoms of ringworm shortly afterwards. read more

Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis or tinea, is a fungal infection of the skin. The name “ringworm” is a misnomer, since the infection is caused by a fungus, not a worm. Ringworm infection can affect both humans and animals. read more

In this case, ringworm is an example of a zoonotic disease, or a disease transmitted from animals to humans. Although catsare affected by ringworm more than dogs, dogs are also commonly affected. In animals, ringworm causes raised, circular areas that frequently are crusted over and associated with hair loss. read more

In most cases, you’ll have to use the medicines on your skin for 2 to 4 weeks to make sure you kill the fungus that causes ringworm. It also will lower its chance of coming back. If you have ringworm on your scalp or in many different places on your body, OTC treatments probably won’t be enough. Your doctor will have to write you a prescription. read more