Tinea is a contagious fungal infection of the skin, hair, or nails. It is also known as ringworm, which is a misleading name because it is not caused by worms. Tinea is caused by a type of fungus called a dermatophyte. Dermatophytes thrive in warm, moist environments, which is why tinea is more common in the summer and in people who sweat a lot.
Tinea is caused by different types of fungi, including Microsporum, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton, and can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with an infected person, animal, or object.
There are different types of tinea, depending on the area of the body that is infected. Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body) causes a red, scaly rash with a raised border. Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) causes itching, burning, and cracked skin between the toes. Tinea cruris (jock itch) causes an itchy, red rash in the groin area. Tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp) causes hair loss and a scaly, itchy scalp.
The most common symptoms of tinea are itching, scaling, and red, circular or oval-shaped lesions on the affected area of the skin. These lesions may have raised borders, be inflamed or blistered, and may also appear crusty or scaly. Tinea can also cause hair loss or nail deformities if it affects these areas.
Tinea can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or indirectly through contact with contaminated objects, such as towels, shoes, or combs.
Treatment for tinea
The treatment for tinea depends on the type of tinea and the severity of the infection. Mild cases of tinea can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams or ointments. More severe cases may require prescription antifungal medications. In some cases, it may also be necessary to take oral antifungal medications.
As a skincare and beauty professional, it is not within your scope of practice to diagnose or treat tinea. Clients suspected of having this fungal infection should be referred to a qualified physician. However, as you work closely with clients’ skin and tinea is highly contagious, it is crucial to take extra precautions to prevent the spread of this and other fungal infections to your family and other clients.
| Tinea Infection | Affected Area | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tinea corporis | Body | Tinea corporis, also known as ringworm of the body, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the trunk, arms, and legs. It presents as circular, scaly patches that may be red or brown and can be itchy or painful. |
| Tinea pedis | Feet | Tinea pedis, or athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially in between the toes. It presents as red, scaly, and itchy skin that may also crack and peel. |
| Tinea cruris | Groin | Tinea cruris, or jock itch, is a fungal infection that affects the skin in the groin area. It presents as a red, itchy rash that can spread to the inner thighs, buttocks, and anus. |
| Tinea capitis | Scalp | Tinea capitis is a fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair. It presents as scaly, itchy, and bald patches on the scalp, and can also cause swollen lymph nodes and fever. |
| Tinea versicolor | Trunk and Limbs | Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the trunk and limbs. It presents as discolored patches of skin that can be white, pink, or brown and may be scaly or itchy. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin and is more common in humid environments. |
Tinea infections are caused by different types of fungi and can be spread through direct or indirect contact with an infected person, animal, or object. Each type of tinea infection has unique symptoms and affects different areas of the body. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the spread of the infection and to promote quick recovery.