Ringworm involves infection with the dermatophyte fungus. This fungus can affect various areas of the body. Some experts classify all of these infections as ringworm, while other authorities use the term to apply only to infections of certain areas, such as the skin or scalp. The location of the body affected by the fungus determines the name given to the infection, such as:

• Tinea capitis. Occurs on the scalp and often leaves bald patches in the affected areas.  One or more lesions may appear on the scalp, with or without inflammation. Baldness is usually reversible and may occur in patches or affect the entire scalp. The longer the infection persists, the more likely the hair loss will be permanent. Swollen, raw and pus-filled lesions (pustules) may develop. This type of ringworm may also be further classified as follows:
  
  
• • Black dot type. Begins as a small patch that slowly enlarges. There is no itching, but there is redness. Hairs break off at the scalp and particles accumulate in the follicle openings, appearing as black dots. If left untreated, scars may form.
    
    
  • Gray patch type. Begins as a small patch that spreads for a while then stops spreading and persists. Redness and scaling are present. Hairs break off just above the scalp level and have a frosted appearance.
    
    
• Tinea corporis. Occurs on the top layer of skin on the arms, legs, trunk or face and appears as red, flat or slightly raised circular sores that may be intensely itchy. These may be dry and scaly or crusted and moist, and may be accompanied by tiny blisters or solid bumps (papules). As the sores become bigger, the center tends to clear, leaving seemingly normal skin surrounded by an infected edge.
  
  
• Tinea cruris. Usually involves infection of the groin and is commonly known as jock itch. It may also affect the inner thighs and buttocks. The condition is more common in men than in women and is often transferred from a person’s infected foot to the groin area (e.g., during dressing). The scrotum and penis are usually not affected. The borders of the rash are well-defined and scaly and may contain blisters or pustules. The rash increases in size over time.
  
  
• Tinea pedis. Usually involves infection of the skin between the toes and is often called athlete’s foot. In some cases, infection may occur on the foot itself. Typical symptoms include scaling of the skin between the toes, especially the fourth and fifth toe, with itchiness and possibly soreness. It often spreads over the sole and instep of the foot. It may later spread onto the sides or top of the foot and in severe, untreated cases, even over the ankle and leg. Small, fluid-filled blisters may also be present and the border between affected and unaffected skin tends to be very distinct. Athlete’s foot is typically more severe in hot weather, when wearing heavy footwear or when perspiring excessively. One or both feet may be affected. Chronic forms tend to be gradually progressive whereas acute forms may be very sudden and tend to be intensely itchy or even painful.