Ringworm is common, especially among children. However, it may affect people of all ages. It is caused by a fungus, not a worm like the name suggests.
Many bacteria and fungi live on your body. Some of these are useful, while others can cause infections. Ringworm occurs when a type of fungus called tinea grows and multiplies on your skin.
Ringwork can affect the skin on your:
Beard -- tinea barbae Body -- tinea corporis Feet -- tinea pedis (also called athlete's foot) Groin area -- tinea cruris (also called jock itch) Scalp -- tinea capitis
What causes Ringworm?
Ringworm is common, especially among children. However, it may affect people of all ages. It is caused by a fungus, not a worm like the name suggests.
Many bacteria and fungi live on your body. Some of these are useful, while others can cause infections. Ringworm occurs when a type of fungus called tinea grows and multiplies on your skin.
Ringwork can affect the skin on your:
Beard -- tinea barbae Body -- tinea corporis Feet -- tinea pedis (also called athlete's foot) Groin area -- tinea cruris (also called jock itch) Scalp -- tinea capitis