Contagious Rashes - Ringworm (Tinea)
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This contagious disease is caused by a fungal infection, specifically by the dermatophyte fungi. Ringworm was given it's name because the rash appears worm-like, in round patches on the skin. Ringworm can occur on the body (especially the trunk or stomach/chest area), the scalp or even sometimes, on the nails.
Ringworm can be caught from another person, animals or even from the soil (if that is where the fungi are present).
Ringworm is also known as tinea.
Ringworm has an incubation period of: varies
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- On the scalp - this is known as tinea capitis
and symptoms are:
- Scaly, round, itchy and bald patches
- Raised inflammed skin
- On the body - this is known as tinea corporis
and symptoms are:
- Rashes that are ring-like and may be red, scaly and itchy
- Small blisters around the edge of patches
- The centre of the round patch clears first
- On the nails - this is known as tinea unguium
and symptoms are:
- Discolouration of the nails
- Thick or brittle nails
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- See a doctor - any child with suspected ringworm needs to see a doctor who can perform an examination to diagnose this condition
- Samples - the doctor may take samples of skin scrapings, hair or nail clippings to be tested in order to identify the infection type
- Medication - the doctor will most likely prescribe some type of anti-fungal medication, either oral (for scalp, nail or body ringworm) or topical (for body ringworm)
- Separate personal care - the child's brush, comb and towel should be kept separate to everyone else's in the family, to prevent the infection from spreading
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Last reviewed: 3 July 2009 || Last updated: 6 October 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, or other supplements cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of nutrient supplement.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.