Ringworm Scalp Tinea Capitis

The medical term for ringworm is tinea. Tinea is the Latin name for a growing worm.  Medical terminology adds another word to indicate where the fungus is located. Ringworm scalp tinea capitis, all refers to scalp ringworm, tinea corporis to fungus of the body, tinea pedis to fungus of the feet, etc.

Ringworm is a common skin disorder known as tinea.  Ringworm is not, in spite of its’ name caused by a worm.  It is a fungal infection of the skin.  In some cases, but not always, it is a round ring-like lesion, hence the name. The term “ringworm” or “ringworms” refers to fungal infections that are on the surface of the skin. The early belief was that the infection was due to a worm, which it is not. Ringworm is a fungus infection in the skin. Nevertheless, the name “ringworm” has caught on. Some of these fungi produce round spots on the skin, but many do not. On the other hand, many round spots on the skin are not due to a fungal infection. A physical examination of the affected skin, evaluation of skin scrapings under the microscope, and culture tests can help doctors make the appropriate distinctions. A proper diagnosis is essential to successful treatment.

A zoonotic disease, ringworm can be passed from animals to humans.  Cats are more likely to be infected of all animals.  The skin changes in cats are very similar to those of affected people, but cats can carry the infection without exhibiting obvious signs.  It is sometimes hard to tell the source of the fungus. A highly contagious infection, ringworm can be passed from animal to person or person to person through direct skin contact as well as through contaminated items like clothing, shower or pool surfaces and toiletry items.

The fungi that cause ringworm tend to grow and thrive in warm moist areas of the body.  Areas that are frequently moist from perspiration, skin folds that stay damp are especially vulnerable.  Good examples are the feet, the groin or the scalp.  You may experience bald patches where hair would normally grow on the scalp.  The fungus lives on the dead tissue of the skin and leaves a lesion.  Skin fungi, like ringworm can only live on the dead layer of keratin protein on top of the skin.  Rarely do they invade deeper into the body.  They cannot live on mucous membranes, such as those in the mouth or vagina.