Question

During your shift at the clinic, a young man arrives with a red, scaly rash formed into rings. What is this patient’s diagnosis likely to be? What causes this condition? How can he avoid this rash in the future?

Answer 1

The young man is probably having ringworm.

Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection that affects the skin or scalp.

It is spread by skin-to-skin contact or by touching an infected animal, or a surface with the fungus or its spores.

It can be treated by self-care or the use of antifungal drugs

It can be prevented by;

• Keeping the skin clean and dry
• Wearing loose clothing that allows air circulation
• Avoid public showers or sharing toiletry
• Clip fingernails and toenails to keep them clean
• Change clothes, inner wears and socks regularly
• Ironing clothes before wearing