Frequently Asked Questions about Ringworm:

Is "Ringworm" caused by a worm?

"Ringworm" (or Tinea) is a fungus that can grow on your skin, scalp or nails. The skin is the main site of recognizable fungal infections, with a special predilection for the scalp, neck, arms, legs and torso. This type of fungal infection is usually characterized by one or more circular, slightly red, dry scaly patches. The borders are more scaly, reddened and raised. As the infection grows, it spreads outward, in a circle, and the skin in the center of the circle clears. Thus, these round, reddened scaly rings look like a worm is under the skin to some people, giving rise to the name "ring worm". However, this infection is NOT caused by a worm.