Ringworm, or as it is medically known ‘tinea corporis’ is a highly infectious fungal skin condition. The infection is common and will present itself as ring-shaped red rash on the skin. Ringworm can occur almost anywhere on the body, with the feet, groin and scalp being the most common locations. The infection is not serious and is easily treated using anti-fungal cream and other anti-fungal treatments, which are readily available from pharmacies.
Despite the name, ringworm doesn’t have any connections with worms; it is instead caused by fungi called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes feed on a substance called keratin, which can be found in the skin, nails and hair. The reason the condition is known as ringworm is simply due to the ring or worm-shaped appearance of the rash.