Ringworm is a fungal overgrowth or infection that is often seen on dogs or cats. This fungus can be transmitted by direct contact. This fungal infection is also known as Tinea may be transmitted from pets to humans or from humans to pets in some cases.
The popular name ringworm probably evolved because the typical infection presents initially as a round red or brown circle of skin surrounding normal skin. It resembles a worm curled in a circle. This skin problem has nothing to do with worms however.
Tinea is normally characterized by the appearance on the skin and the eruptions could be crusty or they could be dry. In some cases this condition could actually resolve itself, however it can also leave scarring behind as well as patches of missing fur on pets. Humans who regularly have close contact with their pets should take precautions to avoid the infection spreading from the pet to the family members.
Normally this fungal infection is diagnosed simply by observation and with a pet, sometimes a vet visit is necessary, and there can be lab tests if deemed necessary. The eruptions can become so severe that infections may develop. If this occurs then antibiotic treatment may be necessary.
Tinea in humans may sometimes resolve with a commonly available over-the-counter topical treatment. These topical treatments are generally applied to the affected area over a period of days or weeks. In cases where a house pet has been diagnosed with Tinea, contact with family members should be limited in order to prevent the spread of this fungal skin condition.
When the problem is present after treatment with over-the-counter medications then the advice of medical professionals should always be sought. Instead of an antifungal cream the doctor may choose to use an oral antifungal medication. Professional medical advice is always important because a skin condition can have causes other than Tinea.
Pets with a fungal infection such as ringworm can be more difficult to treat than humans. The reason is most pets are covered by fur which makes the topical approach more difficult. Normally shaving a pets fur completely off is not recommended unless advised by a veterinarian due to a very severe fungal overgrowth.
Since ringworm is spread by direct contact a pet with Tinea should have only very limited contact with children until the infection is gone. Oral medications might be prescribed by veterinarians in some cases. Recommended treatments may change with the severity of the infection and the environment in which a pet lives.
Lime sulfur has been used for years to treat many types of fungal skin conditions for both pets and livestock. The drawback to this long use treatment is that it has a highly objectionable and very strong odor and the pet must be dipped 2 to 3 times a week for as long as a month. Medications which are taken in tablet form such as Griseofulvin may sometimes be prescribed by a veterinarian. It should be noted however that some of these medications are only effective in conjunction with a special diet and all directions should be followed carefully.
Whether the skin lesions appear on a human or a pet, if the owner or parent is unsure that it is ringworm then medical or veterinary advice should be sought immediately. There are skin conditions that can appear to be Tinea but can possibly be more severe. Whenever ringworm is suspected, proper sterilization of all personal items and grooming tools is important to prevent further spread of this fungal skin condition.
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