Do I have ring worm?
Tinea corporis is commonly known as "ring worm." Tinea corporis is the term used for fungal infection of the skin. The fungus causes a characteristic lesion which is often clear in the center with a rough, scaly, circular border. The lesions vary in size from very small circular patches to very large patches. Diagnosis is aided through scraping the lesion and examining the scales under the microscope.

What causes it?
Tinea corporis is caused by a fungus. Tinea corporis is contagious and is spread through infected pets or through direct contact with infected individuals. Most cases are acquired from household pets.

How do I treat it?
Tinea corporis usually clears up quickly when antifungal medicines are applied twice daily to the skin. If it doesn't, you may need one month of treatment with the antifungal antibiotic, griseofulvin, taken by mouth. It is very important to continue the use of the antifungal cream and/or oral medication for one week after the lesions have cleared because there may be fungus under the skin which is not visible with the unaided eye. Most treatment failures occur because patients stop the medication too early. You can help prevent recurrences by having household pets treated also. Tinea corporis is only one cause of circular lesions with clear centers and scaly edges. If your lesions do not improve, please return for further evaluation.