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Tinea corporis, commonly known as ringworm, is a fungal infection that can appear on the torso, limbs, and underarms.
©iStockphoto.com/ThinkstockThe thought of fungi thriving on your skin can be unsettling for many.
However, if you look beyond the initial revulsion, fungi are truly intriguing organisms. Previously classified as plants (mushrooms are still grouped with vegetables in stores), fungi are now recognized as a separate kingdom due to their unique cell walls and absence of chlorophyll, encompassing over 80,000 known species.
Most skin fungus types are molds referred to as dermatophytes. While numerous fungal species fall under dermatophytes, a single species can impact various body areas and trigger diverse skin responses.
Here are five fast facts to help you understand the fundamentals of skin fungus.
5: Skin Fungus Can Happen to Anyone
Skin infections are widespread. For example, it's estimated that in the United States, at least 20% of people have athlete's foot, a specific type of skin fungus [source: Wallace].
Skin fungi impact both men and women. Tinea corporis, a fungal infection appearing on the torso or limbs, is more common in women. Athlete's foot, however, is more prevalent in men. Jock itch, often the most irritating fungal infection, primarily affects males but can also occur in females.
4: Get Ready for a Fungus Party
Dermatophytes thrive on skin because they consume keratin, a durable, fibrous protein that constitutes a significant portion of your skin, as well as nails and hair, where fungi can also flourish.
A key point to remember is that fungi are drawn to warmth and moisture, in addition to keratin. This explains why they often thrive on sweaty feet. Tinea cruris (jock itch) prefers areas like the groin, anus, and inner thighs—ideal spots for warmth and dampness. Candidiasis, on the other hand, can be found in armpits, under breasts, and between toes, among other locations.
3: Fungus Travels Well
Skin fungus is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with people, animals, clothing, fabrics, and even soil. For instance, you could contract tinea corporis, also known as ringworm, from a cat or a contaminated towel.
Athlete's foot, the most prevalent type of skin fungus, spreads rapidly in communal areas like locker rooms and swimming pools.
Developing jock itch after contracting athlete's foot is not unusual, often due to infected feet touching underwear while dressing. Putting on socks first is a practical preventive measure.
2: Not All Fungi Look Alike
Skin fungi can vary significantly in appearance. For instance, athlete's foot may lead to scaling or cracks between the toes. It can also impact other parts of the foot, resulting in blisters or lesions on the heels, soles, or edges.
Tinea versicolor is notably identified by skin discoloration, which can manifest as lighter or darker patches in shades of white, brown, tan, or pink. Jock itch, on the other hand, typically presents as a rash around the groin, anus, and inner thighs, with reddish-brown centers and scaly or bumpy edges. Candida yeast infections often cause reddish rashes accompanied by small bumps and lesions.
1: Skin Fungus Can Be Treated
Common treatments for skin fungus involve topical creams containing anti-fungal agents like allylamines or azoles. Allylamines act faster but are generally pricier than azoles [source: Mayo Clinic].
While some skin fungus creams and ointments are available over-the-counter, stronger prescription treatments may be necessary if these fail. Oral medications, such as those containing ketoconazole, itraconazole, or fluconazole, are also effective for certain infections like tinea versicolor.
Patience is key, as skin fungus treatments don't work overnight. Infections like tinea versicolor may take weeks or even months to fully resolve.
