List of types of tinea

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List of types of tinea
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Itchy and scaly skin, redness, ring-shaped rash
Complications Secondary bacterial infection, permanent hair loss
Onset Varies by type
Duration Can be chronic if untreated
Types N/A
Causes Fungal infection by dermatophytes
Risks Warm and humid environments, close contact, immunocompromised
Diagnosis Clinical examination, skin scraping
Differential diagnosis Eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis
Prevention Good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items
Treatment Antifungal medication (topical or oral)
Medication N/A
Prognosis N/A
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


Tinea is a group of diseases caused by a fungus. Types of tinea include infections of the skin, scalp, feet, and nails. These conditions are more commonly known as ringworm or dermatophytosis, despite being caused by fungi rather than worms. The name "tinea" is followed by a term that indicates the part of the body affected.

Types of Tinea[edit]

Tinea Capitis[edit]

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp. It primarily affects children and is characterized by patches of hair loss, scaling, and, in severe cases, black dots where hair breaks off at the scalp. It can also lead to swollen lymph nodes and fever.

Tinea Corporis[edit]

Tinea corporis is the medical term for ringworm of the body. It appears as ring-shaped, red, scaly patches with a clear center. It can spread through direct contact with infected individuals or animals, or by sharing personal items.

Tinea Cruris[edit]

Tinea cruris, commonly known as jock itch, affects the groin area. It is characterized by an itchy, red, often ring-shaped rash in the warm, moist areas of the body. Tinea cruris is more common in men and adolescent boys.

Tinea Pedis[edit]

Tinea pedis, known as athlete's foot, involves the feet, particularly the areas between the toes. It leads to itching, redness, and peeling of the skin. The condition is highly contagious and can be acquired in damp communal areas, like swimming pools or showers.

Tinea Unguium[edit]

Tinea unguium or onychomycosis affects the nails, usually the toenails. Infected nails become discolored, thick, and may crumble. The condition is more common in adults and can be challenging to treat.

Tinea Manuum[edit]

Tinea manuum is a fungal infection of the hand, often affecting the palm and the spaces between the fingers. It can cause scaling, redness, and, in some cases, blistering.

Tinea Barbae[edit]

Tinea barbae targets the bearded area of the face and neck, leading to itching, redness, and sometimes, swollen bumps. It is more common in men, especially those who have close contact with animals.

Tinea Faciei[edit]

Tinea faciei refers to ringworm on the face, excluding the area of the beard. It presents as red, scaly patches with a clear center. It can be mistaken for other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Prevention and Treatment[edit]

Prevention of tinea infections involves maintaining good hygiene, keeping the skin dry, avoiding sharing personal items, and wearing footwear in communal wet areas. Treatment typically includes antifungal medications, which can be topical or oral, depending on the severity and location of the infection. This list is incomplete; you can help WikiMD by expanding it.


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