Tinea
Tinea is a group of fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes, moulds that feed on keratin in skin, hair, and nails. Despite the common name “ringworm”, no worm is involved; the ring-shaped rash is simply how the infection spreads outward. It is among the most prevalent skin conditions in tropical climates, where heat and humidity give the responsible fungi ideal breeding conditions.
Key points
- Dermatophyte fungi that break down keratin cause the condition, rather than any actual worm as the traditional name implies.
- Different names are used depending on where it appears, spanning the feet, groin, trunk, scalp and nails.
- Superficial infections often clear with topical creams, whereas nail or widespread cases usually need a course of oral treatment.
Where tinea appears and what it looks like
The infection goes by different names depending on the site. Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) causes scaling, itching, and cracking between the toes. Tinea cruris (jock itch) produces a red, itchy rash along the inner thighs and groin. Tinea corporis forms the classic ring-shaped patch on the trunk or limbs. Tinea unguium (onychomycosis) thickens and discolours the nails, and is the slowest to clear.
Treating tinea
Most tinea infections respond to antifungals. Superficial cases often clear with topical creams applied daily for two to four weeks. Nail infections and widespread or stubborn skin infections typically need an oral antifungal; itraconazole is commonly used for these, especially for nail involvement, because it accumulates in nail tissue and continues working after the course ends.
Keep the affected area dry and change clothing or footwear regularly during treatment, moisture is what lets the fungus persist. See a doctor if the rash is spreading rapidly, involves the scalp with patchy hair loss, or shows no improvement after two weeks of topical treatment.