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Could this be ringworm, or something else?
Hello Doctor,
I have some red spots on my abdomen that have appeared in the last few months. I had them once before last year but they subsided and went away. Now they have returned. I'm wondering if it's possible they are ringworm, as I work around animals (at Petco) alot and we've had some ringworm infections in some of the animals up there. I know that ringworm characteristically appears as a red ring on the skin however, I'm just wondering if it could be something else. I've attached photos. There is no itching or painful sensation, and the area underneath these spots is not tender. About the only effect is it's discolored skin, there are no accompanying symptoms, but I am a worrywort when it comes to my health and these spots appear unusual to me. Any insight would be extremely helpful. I do plan on seeing a dermatologist in the near future if it doesnt go away.
I have some red spots on my abdomen that have appeared in the last few months. I had them once before last year but they subsided and went away. Now they have returned. I'm wondering if it's possible they are ringworm, as I work around animals (at Petco) alot and we've had some ringworm infections in some of the animals up there. I know that ringworm characteristically appears as a red ring on the skin however, I'm just wondering if it could be something else. I've attached photos. There is no itching or painful sensation, and the area underneath these spots is not tender. About the only effect is it's discolored skin, there are no accompanying symptoms, but I am a worrywort when it comes to my health and these spots appear unusual to me. Any insight would be extremely helpful. I do plan on seeing a dermatologist in the near future if it doesnt go away.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. This is contagious and it can be passed from one person to another by direct skin-to-skin contact or by contact with contaminated items or even from pets that carry the fungus. You are right in saying they present as Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center which may create the appearance of a ring. Diagnosis is through physical appearance and scrapings of the affected area and examining the cells under a microscope. Ringworm usually responds well to self-care within 4 weeks such as keeping your skin clean and dry, and applying over-the-counter antifungal or drying powders, lotions, or creams. It is important to know that Infected pets should also be treated to prevent recurrences.
If your condition persists, a consultation with your dermatologist is needed for further evaluation and proper management. Take care and keep us posted.
Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. This is contagious and it can be passed from one person to another by direct skin-to-skin contact or by contact with contaminated items or even from pets that carry the fungus. You are right in saying they present as Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center which may create the appearance of a ring. Diagnosis is through physical appearance and scrapings of the affected area and examining the cells under a microscope. Ringworm usually responds well to self-care within 4 weeks such as keeping your skin clean and dry, and applying over-the-counter antifungal or drying powders, lotions, or creams. It is important to know that Infected pets should also be treated to prevent recurrences.
If your condition persists, a consultation with your dermatologist is needed for further evaluation and proper management. Take care and keep us posted.
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