What it means
Tinea is named by where it is: tinea corporis on the body (ringwormRING-wurmA fungal skin infection that forms a ring-shaped patch; it is not caused by a worm.Full entry ), tinea pedis on the feet (athlete's foot), tinea cruris in the groin (jock itch), tinea capitis on the scalp and tinea unguium in the nails. It spreads by touching infected people, animals or surfaces. Skin infections are treated with antifungal creams; scalp and nail infections need antifungal drugs by mouth.
For the nurse
Teach keeping skin clean and dry, drying well between the toes, not sharing towels, combs or hats, and finishing the full course of treatment.
At a glance
| Spanish | tiña |
|---|---|
| Also written | tineas |
Related terms
infectious disease
An illness caused by a germ such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite.
ringworm
A fungal skin infection that forms a ring-shaped patch; it is not caused by a worm.