Common Symptoms

  • Red, round scaly patches with raised border and central clearing
  • May have one patch or several
  • May be mildly itchy
  • Can occur anywhere on the body including scalp
  • Lesions on the scalp may cause temporary hair loss until treated

Ringworm is actually not caused by a worm but by a fungus. A single ringworm can be treated with over the counter topical medications like Lotramin or Lamisil. If there are multiple lesions they may need prescription topical medications or oral medications. Scalp lesions typically require a prescription shampoo and occasionally oral medication. It is important to keep nails clipped short and avoid scratching at or picking at lesions to prevent spread.