Word parts
What it means
An infection of the outer skin by fungi called dermatophytes. It spreads by contact with infected people, pets (especially cats) or shared items such as towels and gym mats. It usually forms a round, red, scaly patch with a clearer center and a raised edge. Other tinea infections are named by site: tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea capitis (scalp) and tinea cruris (groin).
For the nurse
Teach applying the antifungal cream for the full time ordered, often for a week or two after the rash clears, washing hands after touching the area, not sharing towels, and having infected pets treated.
At a glance
| Spanish | tiña corporal |
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Related terms
fungus
A living thing, such as a yeast or mold, that gets food from other matter; some kinds cause infections. The plural is fungi.
tinea
A fungal infection of the skin, hair or nails.
ringworm
A fungal skin infection that forms a ring-shaped patch; it is not caused by a worm.
fungal infection
An infection caused by a fungus, such as a yeast or a mold.