Cats are an essential part of our lives, and they make for great pets. But, as with all creatures, they are prone to illness, and one of the most common afflictions that affect cats is ringworm. The ...

Context Explanation

Ringworm often causes a ring-shaped rash that is itchy, scaly and slightly raised. The rings usually start small and then expand outward. Ringworm is an infection that many cat owners may be familiar with, either through experience or word of mouth. Contrary to its misleading name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but rather by a group ...

Insight Material

Ringworm of the body is related to athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis). Ringworm often spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. Mild ringworm often responds to antifungal medications applied to the skin. For more-severe infections, you may need to take antifungal pills for several weeks. For ringworm, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: What might be causing the signs and symptoms?

Final Conclusion

Are tests needed to confirm the diagnosis? What is the best treatment? Is this condition temporary or chronic? Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing? Can I wait to see if the condition goes away on its own? Ringworm of the scalp is a contagious infection.

It's most common in toddlers and school-age children. Tinea capitis is related to athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the body (tinea corporis). Medication taken by mouth can kill the fungus that causes ringworm of the scalp. Medicated shampoos may help keep a person from spreading the infection to others.