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Ringworm (fungal skin infection)

Also called: Ringworm, tinea, fungal skin infection, jock itch, athlete's foot

A common fungal skin infection (not a worm) that makes an itchy, red, ring-shaped rash. Antifungal creams cure most cases.

CauseFungus
Spreads byTouch, pets, shared items
TreatmentAntifungal cream 2 to 4 weeks

Overview

On the body it looks like a ring with a clearer center. In the groin it's jock itch; on feet, athlete's foot.

Scalp ringworm, common in children, needs pills.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Ring-shaped itchy rash
  • Itching
  • Red spot, bump, or patch on the skin

Less common

  • Scaly patches
  • Hair loss patch on scalp

Look up a symptom: Itching · Rash · Red spot, bump, or patch on the skin

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayRash with fever or spreading redness.
See a doctor soonNo better after 2 weeks of cream, or scalp rash.

Causes

Fungus from people, pets, or soil.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Yes, it can spread from person to person.
  • How it spreads: touch.
  • Don't share towels, hats, combs, or bedding while it's being treated.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Athletes
  • Kids
  • Pets

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician can usually tell by looking.

Questions you may be asked

  • Pets, sports

The exam

A skin check.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Skin scraping: If unclear.

Treatment

Treat and keep dry.

Self-care

  • Use antifungal cream twice daily, 1 to 2 weeks past clearing
  • Keep skin clean and dry
  • Wash towels and bedding
  • Don't share combs or towels

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Antifungal creams
Skin
Antifungal pills
Scalp or nailsPrescription.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

  • Keep skin dry
  • Wear sandals in locker rooms

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • You can go to school or work once treatment starts. Keep the area covered and don't share towels.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
  • Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Cured with treatment.

Myths and facts

Myth: Ringworm is caused by a worm.

Fact: It's a fungus, not a worm.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Ringworm (fungal skin infection)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.