Contrary to its moniker, ringworm is actually a fungal infection that can affect the nails, skin and hair of dogs and other animals. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, dermatophytosis (or ... Despite what you might think, ringworm isn’t actually a worm at all.

Understanding the Context

Instead, it is a type of fungal infection that causes scaly bald patches in steadily growing rings. When it occurs in humans, there ... Ringworm of the body is related to athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis). Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal.

Key Insights

Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. For more-severe infections, you may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. For ringworm, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: What might be causing the signs and symptoms? Are tests needed to confirm the diagnosis? What is the best treatment?

Final Thoughts

Is this condition temporary or chronic? Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing? Can I wait to see if the condition goes away on its own? Ringworm of the scalp is a contagious infection. It's most common in toddlers and school-age children. Tinea capitis is related to athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the body (tinea corporis).

Medication taken by mouth can kill the fungus that causes ringworm of the scalp. Medicated shampoos may help keep a person from spreading the infection to others. Treatment for ringworm of the scalp requires a prescription-strength antifungal medication taken by mouth. The first-choice medication is usually griseofulvin (Gris-Peg).