Ringworm is caused by what type of organism?

Prepare for the Child Health Safety and Nutrition Test. Study with multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations and hints. Get ready to ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Ringworm is caused by what type of organism?

Explanation:
Ringworm is caused by fungus—dermatophyte fungi that invade keratin in skin, hair, and nails. The name can be misleading, since it isn’t a worm. The typical presentation is a circular, scaly, itchy patch with an advancing red border, and diagnosis is supported by finding fungal elements on a microscopic exam (like a KOH prep) or by culture. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites do not produce the same fungal invasion pattern, so they’re not the cause of ringworm. Treatment relies on antifungal medications, starting with topical agents for mild cases and using oral antifungals for more extensive or nail/scalp infections.

Ringworm is caused by fungus—dermatophyte fungi that invade keratin in skin, hair, and nails. The name can be misleading, since it isn’t a worm. The typical presentation is a circular, scaly, itchy patch with an advancing red border, and diagnosis is supported by finding fungal elements on a microscopic exam (like a KOH prep) or by culture. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites do not produce the same fungal invasion pattern, so they’re not the cause of ringworm. Treatment relies on antifungal medications, starting with topical agents for mild cases and using oral antifungals for more extensive or nail/scalp infections.

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