Tinea
Tinea is a group of contagious FUNGAL INFECTIONS of the SKIN, HAIR, and NAILS caused by DERMATOPHYTE that invade KERATINIZED TISSUES, producing characteristic ring-shaped or scaly lesions.
Tinea, also known as DERMATOPHYTOSIS or ringworm, is a superficial FUNGAL INFECTION caused by DERMATOPHYTE FUNGI, mainly species belonging to the genera TRICHOPHYTON, MICROSPORUM, and EPIDERMOPHYTON. These fungi infect KERATIN-containing tissues such as the EPIDERMIS, HAIR FOLLICLES, and NAILS. Tinea infections are classified according to the affected body site, including TINEA PEDIS (feet), TINEA CRURIS (groin), TINEA CORPORIS (body), TINEA CAPITIS (scalp), and others. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected humans, animals, or contaminated objects. Diagnosis may involve POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE (KOH) TEST, FUNGAL CULTURE, or microscopic examination, while treatment commonly involves ANTIFUNGAL MEDICATIONS.
• Tinea is a fungal infection affecting skin, hair, or nails. • It is commonly called ringworm, although it is not caused by a worm. • It is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. • These fungi feed on keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails. • Common types include: - Tinea pedis: affects feet. - Tinea cruris: affects groin area. - Tinea corporis: affects body skin. - Tinea capitis: affects scalp and hair. • It spreads through infected people, animals, or contaminated surfaces. • Treatment usually involves antifungal medicines.
Tinea is the name of a group of diseases caused by a fungus. Types of tinea include ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch. These infections are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable. You can get them by touching an infected person, from damp surfaces such as shower floors, or even from a pet.
Symptoms depend on the affected area of the body:
- Ringworm is a red skin rash that forms a ring around normal-looking skin. A worm doesn't cause it.
- Scalp ringworm causes itchy, red patches on your head. It can leave bald spots. It usually affects children.
- Athlete's foot causes itching, burning and cracked skin between your toes.
- Jock itch causes an itchy, burning rash in your groin area.
Over-the-counter creams and powders will get rid of many tinea infections, particularly athlete's foot and jock itch. Other cases require prescription medicine.
tinea