Causes of ringworm

Ringworm (tinea) has nothing to do with worms. It is a common fungal infection of the skin, hair or nails caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi feed on keratin, the protein in the outer skin layer, hair and nails, and thrive in warm, moist conditions. The name comes from the round, ring-like rash.

How the fungus spreads

• Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
• Contact with an infected pet or farm animal, especially cats, dogs, cattle and rabbits, and children who handle them.
• Shared items such as towels, combs, clothes, bedding, razors and sports gear.
• Walking barefoot on damp floors in gyms, pool areas and communal bathrooms.
• Contaminated soil, in some cases.

Factors that raise the risk

• Heat, humidity and heavy sweating, which is why infection is common in monsoon and summer.
• Tight, non-breathable clothing and wet clothes kept on for long.
• Poor drying after bathing, especially in skin folds.
• Weakened immunity, such as with diabetes, HIV, steroid use or chemotherapy.
• Overuse of steroid creams on the skin, which can hide and worsen the infection.
• Close contact in schools, hostels and sports teams.

Where it appears Body (tinea corporis), scalp (tinea capitis), groin (tinea cruris), feet (athlete's foot) and nails (tinea unguium).

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Ayurveda describes ringworm-like skin conditions as dadru, linked with aggravated Kapha and Pitta and impurity of blood and skin tissue. This is a traditional framework and not a medical explanation.