Houston Independent School District

Home

Teacher Web Pages

Staff
Email Directory

Calendars

Condit Info

Links

HISD

Condit PTO

What is ringworm? It actually has nothing to do with worms. Ringworm is the common name for a fairly common fungal infection of the skin (formally called tinea corporis). It is spread by direct contact from another infected person or animal (often cats). It usually starts out as a small, scaly spot that slowly grows to a ring-shaped lesion with raised edges- hence the name ringworm. It’s itchy and can be spread to different parts of the body by scratching. It’s fairly harmless in healthy people, as it stays on the top of the skin- just unsightly and annoying. It can be safely treated with a variety over-the counter anti-fungal creams and ointments. Because it grows slowly, however, it often takes a few weeks to completely get rid of it. Covering a spot with a band aid helps to prevent spreading. If it occurs on the scalp it can cause hair loss and an oral medication is required to eradicate it. Some forms of eczema and other skin conditions can mimic ringworm, so if you are not sure or it doesn’t respond to an over-the-counter medicine then see your doctor to confirm the diagnosis.
 

Home

HISD