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Health library/Tinea (fungal skin infection)

Skin and hair

Tinea (fungal skin infection)

Also known as: Ringworm

Tinea infections are fungal infections of the skin, scalp or nails. Their appearance depends on the affected area and can resemble other skin disorders.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Itchy scaly patches
  • A ring-shaped rash in some forms
  • Scalp scaling or hair loss
  • Thickened or discolored nails in some forms

Understanding care

Clinical care may include assessment of the affected area and discussion of suitable antifungal care. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Seek review for persistent symptoms, spreading lesions, significant pain or scarring. Fever with spreading redness, oozing or rapidly worsening skin needs prompt assessment.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

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LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Tinea (fungal skin infection) — First AID health library