ringworm infection is caused by a fungus. fungi that cause ringworm live and multiply on the upper layer of the skin and on the hair. ringworm is not caused by a worm or other parasite. the medical term for fungal infections is tinea followed by a word that describes the location of infection. for example tinea capitis is ringworm of the scalp and tinea barbae is ringworm of the beard. ringworm of the scalp is most commonly caused by the fungus trichophyton tonsurans which is spread from one person to another. this fungus causes more than 90 out of 100 cases of ringworm of the scalp in north and central america. 1 in the past the fungus microsporum canis was the most common cause but it is a less frequent cause now. microsporum canis is spread by cats and dogs. ringworm of the beard is caused by trichophyton verrucosum and is spread by cattle and other farm animals. you can catch ringworm by sharing contaminated hats combs brushes towels telephones clothing sports equipment or even theater seats and by direct contact with an infected person. children are more susceptible to the fungus and more likely to develop an infection than adults. adults often do not develop an infection even after exposure to ringworm-causing fungi. adults and less commonly children can be carriers for ringworm. carriers can pass ringworm on to others but do not have symptoms of the disease. ringworm-causing fungi can live on people objects (such as hats or brushes) or animals for several months. webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what causes ringworm of the scalp or beard?