Why do they call ringworm a worm?

Why do they call ringworm a worm?

The reason it’s called ringworm is because the fungal infection forms a circle of red scaly skin—similar to how a worm looks when it touches end to end. As humans, we have many bacteria and fungi that live on our skin; some are useful and others can cause infections.

Does ringworm have to be a circle?

Ringworm is often circular. It typically begins as a rash with a clearly defined border that looks like there is a worm under the skin. The center of the rash appears sunken and may be gray or scaly. While psoriasis rashes can also be round, the shape is less regular and does not resemble a worm.

Is a ringworm an actual worm?

Ringworm gets its name because of its appearance. No worm is involved. Ringworm of the body is related to athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis).

Is a ringworm really a worm?

Ringworm is a very confusing term because it is really not a worm at all. Ringworm is actually an infection caused by a fungus not a worm. This type of fungus also causes jock itch, scalp and nail infections, and athlete’s foot.

What is the most common cause of ringworm?

The primary cause of ringworm is simply contact with an infected person or animal, including skin-to-skin contact or contact with objects that person or animal has touched. One cause of ringworm infections is sharing personal items such as towels, hairbrushes, or clothes with someone who has ringworm.

Why is it called ringworm if there is no worm?

Why ringworm is called ringworm is kind of bizarre, as there are no worms involved . The name occurred due to the ringlike appearance of lesions. Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by a fungus known as dermatophytosis. There are different species of ringworm, the most common culprit we see is Microsporum canis.

Can a ringworm kill you?

Ringworm cannot kill you but if left unchecked it can lead to other infections that can lead to death.