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Are there any side effects of antifungal medication for tinea?

Nausea and liver damage can result from oral antifungals if they are used for a long period of time. Topical antifungals can cause itching and burning.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is tinea?

Tinea is a group of fungal skin infections, such as athlete's foot, jock itch and 'ringworm', which cause characteristic ring-shaped red rashes.

What causes tinea?

A group of fungi called dermatophytes causes tinea. These fungi use keratin, a component of skin, as their energy source. How severely you respond to infection depends on the species and strain of the dermatophyte.

How is tinea diagnosed?

Tinea is commonly diagnosed by examining the skin. However, skin scrapings or nail clippings of the affected area can be tested using potassium hydroxide (KOH) or cultured to confirm the diagnosis.

Are there different types of tinea?

Different types of tinea affect different parts of the body. Ringworm most commonly affects the skin on the body (tinea corporis), the scalp (tinea capitis), the feet (tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot) or the groin (tinea cruris, also called …

How is tinea treated?

Tinea can be treated with topical and oral antifungal agents.

Who gets tinea?

Anyone can get tinea.

Is tinea contagious?

Tinea is very contagious and can easily be spread through direct contact with an infected person, or through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces, such as towels, shoes or communal showers.

Can tinea be prevented?

You can help prevent the spread of tinea by practicing good hygiene, ensuring linen and towels are washed in hot water and not sharing them with others.

What is the outlook for tinea?

Although tinea can usually be cured, it is common for it to return.

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About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 30 Oct 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 797 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Athlete's foot

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