Tinea infections are fairly common. One of its most common forms is tinea corporis, which is more commonly known as ringworm. Many people also suffer from athlete's foot, which is tinea pedis, or tinea unigum, which is a fungal type of toenail infection. An individual may also develop tinea cruris, also called jock itch, or a form of ringworm that affects the scalp. Scalp ringworm, also called tinea capitis, is more common in children than it is in adult patients.
One common type of tinea infection is called tinea corporis. Also referred to as ringworm, this fungal infection causes a raised, round rash on the skin. The rash is itchy, can spread to other parts of the body, and is highly contagious. Children are more likely to develop ringworm than adults, but the fungal infection can affect people of all ages.
Another type of common tinea infection is called tinea capitis, which is a form of ringworm that affects a person’s scalp. It is contagious and can be spread by pets in addition to human beings. It is more likely to affect children rather than adults but may be diagnosed in patients of all ages. An individual may be more vulnerable to it because of an injury to the scalp. Sometimes, poor hygiene may contribute to its development as well.
Athlete's foot is another common type of tinea infection. This fungal infection, also called tinea pedis, leads to itching, cracking, and peeling of the feet. A person with this condition may find that his feet are excessively dry and note the sensation of stinging or burning as a symptom of the condition. The area between the toes and the soles of the feet are primarily affected, but a person may also develop dry, peeling areas on the sides and tops of the feet.
Tinea cruris is another common type of tinea infection that is referred to as jock itch. This fungal condition is marked by an intensely itchy rash that appears in the groin area. It is more likely to develop in men than women.
Sometimes a tinea infection may affect the toenails instead of or in addition to the skin. In such a case, it is referred to as tinea unigum. It is marked by thickening or deterioration of the nail and discoloration. Eventually, the toenail may even pull away from the nail bed when a patient has this condition.
