Introduction

Tinea on the body, also called tinea corporis or ringworm, is a common fungal skin infection.
Despite the name, it has nothing to do with worms. The name “ringworm” comes from the typical appearance of a round, red, scaly rash with a clearer centre, which looks like a ring.

This infection can affect anyone, but it is more common in warm, humid conditions, after contact with an infected person, animal (such as cats or dogs), or from contaminated objects like towels or bedding. While not usually dangerous, it can be uncomfortable, itchy, and easily spread if untreated.

Typical Symptoms of Tinea on the Body

• Round or oval red patches with a raised edge and clearer centre
• Scaly, itchy, or dry skin
• Rash can slowly spread outward and form multiple rings
• Sometimes several patches join together to form larger areas

How is it Spread?

• Direct skin contact with someone who has the infection
• Pets (cats, dogs, guinea pigs, etc.) with patches of missing hair
• Shared items such as towels, clothing, hats, or bedding
• Warm, moist environments like gyms, swimming pools, or changing rooms

Treatment (Based on Australian Therapeutic Guidelines – ETG)

1. Topical antifungal creams (first-line treatment):
For most cases, creams or lotions are effective.

• Examples: Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Econazole, Ketoconazole, Terbinafine.
• How to use:
  • Apply once or twice daily to the rash and about 2 cm of surrounding skin.
  • Continue for 1 week after rash disappears.
  • Usual course: 2–4 weeks.
• Terbinafine cream often works a little faster (1–2 weeks).

2. Oral antifungal tablets (for more severe cases):
Your doctor may prescribe oral medication if the rash is widespread, not responding to creams, or if you have weakened immunity.

• Options: Terbinafine (1–2 weeks), Itraconazole (about 1 week), or Fluconazole (once weekly for several weeks).
• Tablets are prescription-only and may require liver function checks or a review of other medications.

3. Self-Care & Prevention:
Keep skin clean and dry
Wash clothes, towels, and bedding often
Avoid sharing personal items (clothes, towels, razors)
Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing
Use sandals in public showers and pools
Treat pets if they show bald, scaly patches

We provide confidential, bilingual care (English & Japanese).
If you notice a suspicious rash, please don’t hesitate to make a booking with SkyArch Medical Clinic Brisbane

References

• Therapeutic Guidelines, Dermatology: Tinea (Dermatophytosis). ETG complete. https://www.tg.org.au
• Healthdirect Australia – Ringworm (Tinea): https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/ringworm
• DermNet NZ – Tinea corporis (Body ringworm): https://dermnetnz.org/topics/tinea-corporis