Fungal skin infections are very common and include ringworm of the body or scalp, athlete's foot, groin itch and pale or dark patches on the chest and back (tinea versicolor). Fungi grow best in warm, moist skin folds. They are spread by contact with infected people, animals, combs, towels or shoes. Most are easy to treat with antifungal creams.
Symptoms
Round, red, itchy patches with a clearer centre and a raised scaly edge (ringworm)
Itching, cracking and peeling between the toes
Itchy red rash in the groin or under the breasts
Scaly patches and hair loss on the scalp in children
Light or dark patches on the chest, back or neck
Thick, yellow or crumbly nails
Causes
Warm, moist and sweaty skin
Sharing towels, combs, caps, clothes or shoes
Contact with infected people or animals such as cats, dogs and cattle
Walking barefoot in shared bathrooms
Diabetes, obesity or a weak immune system
Using steroid creams on the rash, which makes it spread
Prevention
Keep skin clean and dry, especially between toes and in skin folds
Do not share towels, combs, caps or shoes
Talk to a doctor
Get advice by video, voice or chat without leaving home.
Treat infected family members and pets at the same time
Treatment
Antifungal cream applied to the rash and a little beyond it, continued 1 to 2 weeks after it clears
Antifungal shampoo for tinea versicolor or the scalp
Antifungal tablets from a doctor for scalp, nail or widespread infections
Keep the area dry during treatment
Do not use steroid creams or mixed steroid creams on fungal rashes without a doctor
Common questions
Why did my rash get worse after using a mixed cream from the pharmacy?
Many mixed creams contain a steroid. Steroids reduce itching at first but help the fungus grow and spread. Use a plain antifungal cream, or see a doctor.
Can ringworm come from animals?
Yes. Cats, dogs, cattle and sheep can pass ringworm to people, especially children. Wash hands after handling animals and have sick animals treated.
