Tinea is a group of fungal infections that cause rashes and itching, with symptoms varying depending on the affected body part. Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) is common and can be passed between people in gyms or swimming pools. Other types include tinea capitis (scalp) and tinea cruris (groin).
The most common symptoms of tinea are rashes and itching. Depending on the type of infection, the rash often appears red and grows outward on the skin. Some infections cause a lighter-colored rash that looks like dry skin. Other symptoms can include flaky skin, nail discoloration, and even hair loss if the infection affects the scalp. There are different types of tinea, so the exact symptoms vary depending on which area of the body is involved.
The term tinea actually refers to a group of fungal infections. These infections, also known as dermatophytosis infections, are caused by a fungal parasite that can grow in the skin. The different types of infections are named according to which part of the body they affect. For example, tinea pedis affects the feet, while tinea manuum is an infection of the hand. Fungal skin infections are very common, especially among athletes who play many contact sports.
There are certain tinea symptoms that are common to all types of infection. A rash, for example, is almost always present. It often grows outward in a circular pattern, leading to the condition sometimes known as ringworm. The presentation of the condition depends on which part of the body is affected. In some cases the rash is red and itchy, while in others it looks like just an area of dead skin.
Other potential symptoms of tinea include itching over the area of infection and a scaly appearance to the skin. The patient may also notice a change in nail color, although this depends on the type of infection. If the infection has affected the scalp or face, it can lead to hair loss. Because there is such a variety of tinea symptoms, the condition is often mistaken for other skin disorders.
One of the most common types of tinea is tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot. This condition often affects the skin on the sole of the foot, i.e. the plantar surface. Along with a rash, other tinea pedis symptoms include pustules and skin discoloration. Because athlete’s foot can be passed between people, the condition is often caught in gyms or swimming pools.
There are numerous other types of infections, each with different symptoms of tinea. Tinea capitis, for example, is an infection of the scalp. Other types include tinea cruris, which is found in the groin area, and tinea barbae, which affects the face.
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