What is ringworm in children?

Ringworm is a type of skin infection caused by a fungus. It looks like a red skin rash that forms a ring around normal-looking skin. There are several types of ringworm.

What causes ringworm in a child?

A ringworm infection is not caused by an actual worm. It is caused by fungi on the skin, hair, and nailbeds called dermatophytes. Different types of dermatophytes affect different parts of the body. They cause different types of symptoms.

Which children are at risk for ringworm?

Children may be at risk for ringworm if they:

• Use shared bathrooms or locker rooms

• Play contact sports, such as wrestling

• Live in a warm climate

• Have contact with other children or pets that have ringworm

• Have a weak immune system because of illness or medicines

• Have poor hygiene

• Are malnourished

What are the symptoms of ringworm in a child?

The symptoms of ringworm vary depending on which part of the body is affected. The most common types of ringworm are listed below.

How is ringworm diagnosed in a child?

Ringworm is usually diagnosed based on a health history and physical exam of your child. The ringworm rash is unique. This makes it easy to diagnose with a physical exam. In addition, your child's healthcare provider may order a culture or skin scraping of the rash to confirm the diagnosis.

How is ringworm treated in a child?

Fungi can live indefinitely on the skin, so ringworm is likely to come back. Treatment may need to be repeated. Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment for scalp ringworm may include:

• Antifungal medicine taken by mouth for 4 to 8 weeks. Some children may need longer treatment.

• Special shampoo to help get rid of the fungus. Shampoos can't replace the oral medicine, but you can use shampoo in addition to them.

If your child has a kerion or a secondary sore (abscess) or bacterial infection, the healthcare provider may order additional medicines to help reduce the swelling. These may include steroids.

Treatment for ringworm of the body, groin, and foot is usually an antifungal cream or pill to take by mouth. The length of the treatment depends on the location of the ringworm.

Ringworm of the nails can be difficult to cure. It is usually treated with antifungal medicine taken by mouth.

Good handwashing is critical to managing ringworm. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after treating your child's ringworm. Teach your child how and when to wash their hands as well.

If the ringworm is from an animal, it will need treatment too.

What are possible complications of ringworm in a child?

Ringworm rarely has serious complications. 

What can I do to prevent ringworm in my child?

Ringworm can be prevented by:

• Having good hygiene

• Frequent handwashing

• Not wearing other people's hats or clothing

• Keeping feet dry

• Staying away from someone who has ringworm

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Most types of ringworm can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. But ringworm of the scalp and nails requires taking an antifungal medicine by mouth. This medicine must be prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you are unsure if your child has ringworm or if your child has a weakened immune system, call your child's healthcare provider.

Key points about ringworm in children

• Ringworm is a type of skin infection. It looks like a red skin rash that forms a ring around normal-looking skin.

• Ringworm infection is not caused by an actual worm but by fungi on the skin, hair, and nail beds.

• The symptoms of ringworm vary depending on the type of fungus and which part of the body is affected. Most cause itching.

• Ringworm is usually diagnosed based on a health history and physical exam of your child.

• Most ringworm infections are treated with medicines that you apply to the skin. But ringworm of the scalp and nails requires a prescribed antifungal medicine that your child takes by mouth.

• It's important to wash your hands before and after treating ringworm.

• If the ringworm is from an animal, it will need treatment too.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.

• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.

• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.

• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.

• Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.

• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.

• Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.

• If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

• Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.