The fungal infection commonly called ringworm is often seen on dogs, cats or even children. Ringworm infection is also called Tinea and the fungus can be spread to others by means of direct contact. Pets can spread Tinea among themselves or even transmit the infection to humans.
Although the name ringworm is very popular in the fungal infection has nothing to do with worms. More than likely the name developed due to the typical round appearance of affected skin. The circular patches often surround areas of normal appearing skin and give the appearance of a worm curled in a circle.
The skin eruptions often seen with Tinea might be crusty and moist in appearance, or they might be dry red and scaly. The skin usually erupts in small patches and with pets results in small areas of hair loss. When a family pet had developed as a fungal overgrowth of this nature it is of great concern to a family with children that the infection not be passed to the children.
In many cases Tinea might be diagnosed by a doctor or veterinarian simply by the observable symptoms. Pet owners might also recognize the symptoms. Interruptions caused by this fungal overgrowth can become infected; if this happens antibiotics might be necessary.
Tinea in humans can often be eliminated by using an over the counter anti-fungal treatment. In many cases, these ointments can be applied to the skin eruptions. All clothing and towels should be washed carefully; if the family has a pet, then measures should be taken to limit contact between the pet and other family members.
If the problem does not resolve with the use of over the counter fungal treatments, a visit to the doctor is necessary. The doctor may decide to use an oral treatment instead of a topical antifungal treatment. In some cases, the problem could be caused by something other than Tinea.
Pets with a fungal infection such as ringworm can be more difficult to treat than humans. The reason is most pets are covered by fur which makes the topical approach more difficult. Normally shaving a pets fur completely off is not recommended unless advised by a veterinarian due to a very severe fungal overgrowth.
Household pets with a fungal infection should be kept away from children until the problem has been solved. The reason for this is because ringworm is transmitted through direct contact. There are many approaches to the treatment of Tinea. Some veterinarians may recommend a dip or rinse for the pet. Sometimes with very severe infections oral antifungal treatment may be used by the vet. In addition to the medications the pets living area should be disinfected as thoroughly as possible.
A rinse of lime sulfur is a long-standing treatment for ringworm. The drawback to a rinse or dip of lime sulfur is that it has an extremely objectionable and strong odor. There may be times when oral medication may be considered a preferable treatment by veterinarian. Tablets such as Griseofulvin may be used to clear up the fungal infection however many of these also require a very special diet to be most effective. At times topical creams may be used and these can be obtained through the veterinarian or in some cases over the counter without a prescription.
Whether the skin lesions appear on a human or a pet, if the owner or parent is unsure that it is ringworm then medical or veterinary advice should be sought immediately. There are skin conditions that can appear to be Tinea but can possibly be more severe. Whenever ringworm is suspected, proper sterilization of all personal items and grooming tools is important to prevent further spread of this fungal skin condition.
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