What is ringworm?

Also known as: tinea corporis, tinea.

A ringworm infection is a very infectious and common skin rash presenting as one or more ring-shaped (with a clearish center, and a raised, rough scaly edge), pink/red patches, seen anywhere on the body, usually 0.5 to 1 inch in size caused by a fungus. It gets its name because the rash forms a circular appearance on the skin.

It's spread by contact with infected dogs or cats (and pet rodents), and there is an increased risk if you live in a warm climate, your child is malnourished, immunosuppressed by disease or treatments, and uses communal baths.

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Reviewed by: Ana Margarita Duarte, MD

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM