Ringworm (Body)

Pathophysiology
Ringworm also known as tinea is one of the top fungal infections caused to the body. It is so called ringworm because it has itchy red rash like appearance. There is no connection between ringworm and worms. Ringworms are classified according to the body part which is affected. The most common ones are Tinea captis (scalp ringworm), Tinea corporis (skin or body ringworm), Tinea cruris (groin infection), Onychomycosis (Fungal nail infection), Tinea pedis (athlete's foot).

Symptoms
Though the disease has variety of appearances, most identifiable is enlarging raised red rings on skin. Edge of the rash appears elevated and scaly to touch which is dry and flaky thus resulting in hair loss in that area of infection. More rings on skin which multiply and grow whereas, few emerge together results in itching.

Disease Treatment
In the treatment of body ring worm infection, mostly its treated with the anti-fungal creams which contain terbinafine which is very proven to be very effective in treatment of the infection. Sometimes should seek help of a qualified pharmacist. The anti-fungal cream should be applied as prescribed by the pharmacist or the doctor. But all the anti-fungal creams do not follow same usage advice. If few severe cases, if they cover a large area of the body and do not respond to OTC medications, the doctor may prescribe a prescription-strength topical medication.

Statistical Analysis
This infection is caused in many countries. The fungal species responsible for causing tinea capitis vary according to the geographical region, and may also change over time. It is more common in males than females; rarely does the disease persist past age sixteen. It occurs in 3-8% of the pediatric population; up to one-third of households with contact with an infected person may harbor the disease without showing any symptoms.