Fungal infections can affect the skin, feet, groin, scalp, beard area and nails. They are common, but several inflammatory skin conditions can look very similar, so treatment works best when the diagnosis is right.
We evaluate suspected ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, tinea versicolor, scalp fungal infections and nail fungus, then match treatment to the location, extent and severity.
Common fungal skin and nail infections
- Ringworm (tinea corporis): Often forms scaly, expanding patches or rings on the body.
- Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis): May cause scaling, cracking, itching or irritation between the toes or on the soles.
- Jock itch (tinea cruris): Usually affects the groin and inner thighs.
- Tinea versicolor: Can cause lighter, darker or pink finely scaly patches, often on the chest, back or shoulders.
- Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis): Can cause scale, broken hairs and areas of hair loss and generally requires prescription oral treatment.
- Nail fungus (onychomycosis): May cause thickening, discoloration, crumbling or separation of the nail.
How we confirm the diagnosis
Some fungal infections have a classic appearance. When the diagnosis is uncertain, a skin scraping, nail clipping, culture or other testing may be used. Confirming nail fungus is especially useful before committing to longer courses of prescription treatment because psoriasis, trauma and other nail disorders can mimic fungus.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the body site and severity. Localized skin infections may respond to topical antifungal medication, while widespread disease, scalp involvement, beard-area infection or selected nail infections may require an oral prescription antifungal. Medication choice also depends on medical history, other medications and potential interactions.
Keeping affected areas dry, changing damp socks or clothing, avoiding shared towels and treating fungal infection at other body sites can help reduce reinfection.
When it may not be fungus
Eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, bacterial infection and other rashes can resemble a fungal infection. Steroid treatment used without the right diagnosis can sometimes change the appearance of a fungal rash and make it harder to recognize.
Related reading from Borealis
More information: American Academy of Dermatology: Ringworm treatment.
Schedule an evaluation
Appointments are available in Garden City, Syosset, and Bellerose, NY. Book Appointment or call (516) 246-8800.