Can fungi on the skin cause ringworm?

Expert answer:

Yes, the presence of some fungi on the skin can cause mycoses. These fungal infections appear mainly when the climate is hot and humid, as it favors the proliferation of fungi.

Fungi causing mycoses may be present in the soil, in animals or even in other people. Remember that not all fungi found on the skin cause infections, since there are fungi that can inhabit the skin without causing fungal infections.

The proliferation of fungi in the skin is favored can some factors like moisture, heat, prolonged use of antibiotics and low immunity.

Main types of skin ringworm

Tineas

Tines are among the most common fungal infections and are classified according to their location (Tinea capitis, Tinea barbae, Tinea corporis, Tinea unguium, Tinea manum / pedis, Tinea cruris).

They are caused by fungi that feed on the keratin present on the skin, hair, and nails. Tetanus-causing fungi may be present in animals, soil, or other people.

Learn more at: What types of ringworm exist?

Pityriasis versicolor (White Cloth)

This type of mycosis affects the skin, changing its pigmentation. It is also very common and arises mainly in the trunkin the arms, at the face and in the scalp. Its popular name "white cloth" is related to the skin that gets lighter around the affected areas.

Pityriasis versicolor, also known as "beach mycosis", occurs more often in people with oily skin.

Candidiasis

The main fungus that causes this type of mycosis is Candida albicans, which can affect not only the skin, but also the nails, a mouth, O esophagus, a vagina and the vulva.

Many times this fungus is present in the body and does not cause any type of infection. However, some conditions may favor their proliferation, such as moisture, heat, pregnancy, diabetes, stress, low immunity and prolonged use of antibiotics.

Symptoms

  • White spots that appear in groups or in isolation, causing skin peeling;
  • Dark or red spots on the skin;
  • Itching in affected places;
  • Red spots with bubbles or crusts;
  • Red plaques with fissures in the fold regions of the skin.

Learn more at: Fungi on the Skin: How to Identify and Treat?

Prevention

  • Dry the skin well after bathing, especially in areas of folds, such as groin, armpits and fingertips;
  • Frequently change socks and shoes;
  • Give preference to open and airy shoes;
  • Leave the shoes exposed to the sun for at least one day;
  • Avoid wet or wet clothes for a long time;
  • Avoid hot, tight clothing and synthetic fabric, giving preference to cotton clothing;
  • Avoid walking barefoot, especially in resorts and pool areas;
  • Take the veterinarian with domestic animals with faults in the hairs, as they may be with ringworm;
  • Do not wear clothes and personal hygiene items from other people;
  • Wear gloves when handling the ground.

Seek a dermatologist if you develop signs and symptoms of ringworm to receive the appropriate treatment, according to the type of fungus.