Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

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Complications of Ringworm

The most common complication is that ringworm spreads from one area of the body to another, for example from the groin to the foot, or from the nails to the skin.

Broken skin can allow other infections to enter, such as bacterial infections, which require antibiotic treatment.

If your immune system does not work properly (for example if you have HIV or have had recent chemotherapy treatment), infections are more likely to spread.

Severe forms of scalp infection, or tinea capitis, can cause a large oozing swelling called a kerion. This can cause pain and fever, and without treatment may lead to permanent scarring and hair loss.