Fungus
Ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, kerion, tinea, etc. – lots of names same cause.
What is a fungal infection of the skin?
A typical fungal infection of the skin is caused by a dermatophyte (skin loving fungus). The most common being athletes foot – or “tinea pedis”. For the most part they do not cause any major medical issues unless someone is at risk for “superinfection” with bacteria (diabetics, immunosuppressed patients, etc.). Fungi live all around us, in our shoes, on our pets, on hard surfaces etc. Moist environments or breaks in the skin make getting a fungal infection more likely.
How do you treat it?
Treatment is fairly simple but varies depending on location:
Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) – mostly treated with topical antifungal creams – sometimes needs tablets
Jock itch (tinea cruris) - mostly treated with topical antifungal creams – rarely needs tablets
Scalp fungus (tinea capitis) – should be treated with tablets of antifungals
How do I prevent it?
Prevention is key. First you should make sure other close contacts are treated if they have rash – spouse, kids, pets, etc. Then it is good to think about exposures, do you wrestle or spare? – then make sure mats are cleaned and consider an anti-fungal body wash after each workout (Nizoral). Do you have athlete’s foot? Consider anti-fungal foot powder in your shoes daily before putting them on or twice weekly application of anti-fungal cream for prevention.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology (link - https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/ringworm-overview)
For Physicians only (or patients of Dr. Contestable) – “Fungus – Patient Handout”