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What is ringworm?
Ringworm is a common skin infection.
Even though it has "worm" in the name, it is not caused by a worm.
It is caused by a fungus.
It gets its name because the rash often looks like a pink, scaly ring on the skin.
The spots are usually about the size of a coin (half-inch to one inch).
Often, the center clears up and looks like normal skin while the edges stay red and bumpy.
It can be mildly itchy.
What causes ringworm?
Ringworm is caused by a tiny fungus that lives on the skin.
It most often spreads to humans from pets, like puppies or kittens.
It can also spread from person to person through direct skin-to-skin contact. This is most common among athletes who have close contact, like wrestlers.
In rare cases, the fungus can be found in the soil.
How is ringworm diagnosed?
A healthcare provider can usually tell if a rash is ringworm just by looking at it.
They look for the circular shape, a raised or scaly border, and a clear center.
If your child has a round, itchy patch that is slowly getting larger, it is likely ringworm.
How is ringworm treated?
You can treat most cases of ringworm at home with antifungal cream. You can buy these at the store without a prescription. Common brands include Lamisil, Micatin, or Lotrimin.
How to apply: Put the cream on the rash and one inch past the edges of the spot. Do this two times every day.
How long: Keep using the cream for at least 7 days after the rash has completely disappeared. This helps make sure the fungus is gone.
School and Daycare: Your child does not need to miss school. After 48 hours of treatment, the rash does not spread to others. Wrestlers can return to matches after 3 days of treatment.
How is ringworm prevented?
The best way to prevent ringworm is to avoid contact with infected pets. If your puppy or kitten has itchy spots or patches of missing fur, take them to a veterinarian for treatment. If the rash keeps coming back in your home, a pet is likely the cause.
When to contact your child’s healthcare team?
Most ringworm goes away in 3 to 4 weeks. Please contact us if:
The rash gets bigger or spreads after one week of treatment.
The rash is not gone after 4 weeks.
The skin looks worse (becomes very red, painful, or swollen).
You are concerned about your child's symptoms.
📚 References
This content was adapted from HealthyChildren.org, The American Academy of Pediatrics Parenting Website, Rady Children’s Health Library. Images from DermNet, The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas.
Reviewed by AR D.O., Patient Education Committee.