Ringworm is a common skin condition caused by a virus and therefore belongs to the infectious skin diseases. It can be diagnosed in children and adults. 

How do I get it?

The transmission of the virus can be done through the use of contaminated linen (such as towels and sheets), gym mats and also by contact. In adults, transmission to the genital area through sexual intercourse is also common. Using a condom during intercourse is not enough to prevent the disease, so adults with active terminitis should avoid sexual contact with their partner. 

Finally, a special feature of infectious terminitis is that the person who is sick can transmit the damage to himself (autoinflammation).

The symptoms

Terminthos contagiosum manifests as clusters of pimples that start as cone-shaped lesions and develop into "pimples" with a red casing and a white head, which can appear anywhere on the body. Also, people with atopic dermatitis have an increased risk of contracting the virus because of the tiny bumps it causes on their skin. 

The diagnosis 

The clinical examination and examination with the dermatoscope will give the dermatologist the information he needs to arrive at a diagnosis. In the event that the clinical picture is not clear, the dermatologist can take a tissue sample for microscopic examination. 

The treatment

Ringworm usually resolves without treatment within 12 to 18 months. Most of the time, however, treatment is recommended to limit the transmission to others and the extension of the damage to the same person. Lesions can be destroyed by enucleation (extirpation with special forceps that dermatologists have), laser or cryotherapy. Caustic solutions may also have a beneficial effect in dealing with the spread of the virus.