Tinea

Key facts

• Tinea is a group of fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes, moulds that feed on keratin in skin, hair, and nails.
• Despite the common name "ringworm", no worm is involved: the ring-shaped rash is simply how the infection spreads outward.
• It appears differently by site: tinea pedis (athlete's foot) on the feet, tinea cruris (jock itch) in the groin, tinea corporis on the trunk or limbs, and onychomycosis in the nails.
• Most cases clear with topical antifungals; nail infections or stubborn cases often need an oral antifungal such as itraconazole.

Where tinea appears and what it looks like

The infection goes by different names depending on the site. Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) causes scaling, itching, and cracking between the toes. Tinea cruris (jock itch) produces a red, itchy rash along the inner thighs and groin. Tinea corporis forms the classic ring-shaped patch on the trunk or limbs. Onychomycosis, tinea of the nails, thickens and discolours the nail plate and is the slowest of the group to clear.

Treating tinea

Most tinea infections respond to antifungals. Superficial skin cases often clear with topical creams applied daily for two to four weeks. Nail infections and widespread or stubborn skin infections typically need an oral antifungal: itraconazole is commonly used for these, especially for nail involvement, because it accumulates in nail tissue and keeps working after the course ends.

Keeping the affected area dry and changing clothing or footwear regularly during treatment matters, since moisture is what lets the fungus persist.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if the rash is spreading rapidly, involves the scalp with patchy hair loss, or shows no improvement after two weeks of topical treatment.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.