Tinea Corporis caused by Epidermophyton floccosumin

Tinea Corporis: A Common Skin Infection Cause By Epidermophyton Floccosum

Tinea corporis, also known as ringworm, is a common fungal infection of the skin. It is caused by a type of fungus called Epidermophyton floccosum. Commonly found on the face, or on known as the trunk, tinea corporis can also spread to other parts of the body. It is most common in children and young adults, but it can affect people of any age. It is also called beard fungus in older men.

Tinea corporis is not caused by parasitic worms, although it does have a circular pattern of raised reddish lesions on the skin. It can appear on any area of the body, but is more common on the chest, abdomen, arms, and legs. The rash is usually slightly scaly, itchy, and red or pink in color. The fungus grows in a circular pattern, which is why it can look like a ringworm. The skin around the rash may also become cracked and infected.

Symptoms of Tinea Corporis

There are several main symptoms of tinea corporis. These include:

  • Red, round, scaly, and itchy rash with a raised edge
  • Small, cluster-like blisters or pimples
  • Swelling and tenderness in the affected areas
  • Skin cracking and infection in the affected areas

Treatment of Tinea Corporis

Treatment of tinea corporis usually involves antifungal medications. Depending on the severity of the infection, doctors may also recommend topical and oral treatments. These include:

  • Topical antifungal medications, applied directly to the affected area
  • Oral antifungal medications, taken by mouth to treat more severe infections
  • Corticosteroid creams, to reduce inflammation and itching
  • Wet dressings, to keep the affected area moist
  • Antibiotics, to treat secondary bacterial infections

It is important to keep the affected area clean and dry, and to follow the instructions on any medications prescribed by your doctor. It is also important to avoid any activities that may further irritate the affected area, such as sweating, scratching, or wearing tight clothing.

Prevention of Tinea Corporis

Prevention is the best way to avoid a fungal infection like tinea corporis. To minimize your risk, you should:

  • Use soap and water to clean the skin after exercising or physical activity
  • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing that allows the skin to breathe
  • Keep the skin dry and clean, with daily bathing and limited use of creams and lotions
  • Avoid contact with anyone who has a skin infection

If you're in an area where fungal infections are common, you may want to wear long pants and long sleeves to reduce your risk for infection. The use of antifungal powders and creams can also help prevent fungal infections.

Conclusion

Tinea corporis, commonly called ringworm, is a common fungal infection of the skin. It is caused by a type of fungus called Epidermophyton floccosum. Commonly found on the face or trunk, tinea corporis can also spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms of this infection include red, round, scaly, and itchy rash with a raised edge, small cluster blisters, swelling, tenderness, and cracked and infected skin. Treatment involves antifungal medications and other topical and oral treatments. Prevention is key, and it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry, and to avoid activities that may irritate the affected area.