Many fungi belonging to the genera Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton collectively called Dermatophytes are responsible for ringworms.

Diagram showing ringworm affected area of the skin

It is one of the most common infectious disease in man.

Appearance of dry, scaly lesions on various parts of the body such as skin, nails and scalp are the main symptoms of the disease.

Lesions are accompanied by intense itching.

Heat and moisture helps these fungi to grow, which makes them thrive in skin folds such as those in groin or between toes.

Ringworms are generally acquired from soil or by using towels, clothes or even the comb of infected individuals.