Definition:

Tinea Corporis or ringworm or pityriasis corporis is a fungal infection of the skin characterized by itchy ring-shaped skin rashes. Its other names are tinea circinata and tinea glabrosa. It affects specifically groins, inside of the thigh, lower abdomen, and any part of the body.

This infection tends to last for a very long time, for years at times; as it is difficult to get rid of this fungus.

Types of Tinea Corporis:

• Tinea Capitis: Ringworm infection of the scalp
• Tinea Barbae: Ringworm infection of the beard area
• Tinea Pedis: Ringworm infection of the foot
• Tinea Cruris: Ringworm infection of the groin area
• Tinea Manus: Ringworm infection of hands and interdigital spaces
• Tinea Faciei: Ringworm infection of the face except for the beard area
• Tinea Unguium: Ringworm infection of nails

Causes:

It is caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes.

The following factors make one prone to develop fungal infection:

• Excessive sweating
• Poor hygiene
• Using contaminated personal care items (such as clothing, combs, toothbrush, etc.)
• It can also spread from pets (such as cats, dogs, cows, etc.)

Symptoms:

• Red raised ring-shaped eruption with clearer center
• The borders may appear scaly
• Itching

Diagnosis:

• It is best diagnosed by any trained physician clinically.
• Skin scrapings of the affected area for microscopic examination
• Culture

Treatment:

• Antifungal creams - ketoconazole, oxiconazole, clotrimazole or miconazole
• Antifungal medication- The most commonly used antifungal medications are itraconazole and terbinafine. These medications are given in extensive cases to prevent secondary infection.

Homeopathic approach for the treatment of Tinea Corporis:

Homeopathy is effective for chronic Tinea corporis. However, as the disease gets older, it tends to get more resistant to any form of treatment. Also, once you use anti-fungal cream for many months or years, this infection becomes more resistant and difficult to treat. Homeopathy is strongly indicated for Tinea corporis.