Ringworm in Humans: Types of Ringworm, What It Looks Like and Where It Comes From

A patch on the skin that peels at the edge and lightens in the center is a common reason to ask "what is this." The word "lishay" in everyday use unites several different diseases, and they do not all look the same. Let's break down the types of ringworm, what it looks like on different parts of the body, and where it comes from.

What ringworm is and why different diseases are called this

Ringworm is a general term for skin diseases of various etiologies in which the main rash element is small itchy nodules that do not transform into other eruptions, or inflammatory papular patches. It is not a single diagnosis but an umbrella name: behind it are fungal, viral and autoimmune processes, as well as conditions of unclear nature. Hence the confusion: two people with "ringworm" may have completely different diseases with different prognoses.

Types of ringworm in humans

The list of forms most often called ringworm looks like this.

• Ringworm of the scalp — trichophytosis and microsporia, a fungal infection.
• Pityriasis versicolor, also known as multicolored — a fungal infection.
• Shingles — a viral infection.
• Pityriasis rosea, or spotted — probably a viral infection.
• Weeping — eczema, a non-infectious disease of unclear etiology.

Separately in this series is scaly ringworm, that is, psoriasis, probably an autoimmune disease, and lichen planus as a non-infectious disease of unclear etiology or autoimmune. Only the word in the name unites them.

What ringworm looks like on the face, arms, legs and back

Fungal ringworm produces a rash that may be red or darker than the surrounding skin; the shade depends on skin tone, and on brown and black skin the color may be less noticeable. The rash looks scaly, dry, swollen or itchy. The classic form is a ring, but on the face, neck and scalp the picture is different, and on the face and head patchy hair loss is possible.

The rash starts with a small area of red raised patches and pustules, then slowly becomes ring-shaped: a red raised, sometimes scaly edge and a clear center. Localization — arms, legs, face and other exposed areas; the rash can be on any part of the body, including the scalp and groin. Sometimes the patch grows, spreads, or not one but several appear.

What causes ringworm and whether it is contagious

The fungal form is caused by mold-like fungi — dermatophytes, which live on dead tissues of hair, nails and the outer layers of skin. The disease is common in children but occurs at any age. Fungi like warm moist places, so risks are higher with prolonged moist skin, minor injuries to skin and nails, infrequent washing, close contact with people, for example in wrestling. It is transmitted through direct contact with the affected area and through objects: clothing, combs, pool surfaces, floors and walls of showers, as well as from animals, more often from cats; infection through soil is possible, although it is less common. Despite the name, it is not caused by worms.

Weeping ringworm (eczema) and lichen planus are classified in sources as non-infectious diseases, and psoriasis — probably as autoimmune.

How ringworm is diagnosed

The doctor often makes the diagnosis by examining the skin. Additionally, microscopic examination of a scraping from the rash using a special test, fungal culture and skin biopsy are used. Particular attention is required for scalp involvement and reduced immunity — for example, during chemotherapy, steroids or diabetes: the scope of examination in such cases is determined by the doctor.

When to see a dermatologist

You should see a doctor if the rash has not improved after the treatment started. A separate reason is scalp involvement: this form is assessed by a doctor. The doctor should be informed about weakened immunity — for example, during chemotherapy, steroids or diabetes.

Among possible complications is skin infection due to scratching; in addition, scratching can spread the rash to other parts of the body.

Ringworm itself is not a reason to call an ambulance. Numbers 103 and 112 are for life-threatening conditions, for example if a stroke or heart attack is suspected.

The material is for reference: it describes what occurs and how it looks, but does not replace a doctor's consultation — the diagnosis is made after examination.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer