Is ringworm cause of rash?

Q. I have had an on-again, off-again rash on my body. It is primarily on my back and upper torso. My doctor told me I was allergic to my own sweat and diagnosed me with tinea.

Whenever I sweat, the rash appears. It is itchy, red and blotchy. I have been given several different medications, creams and lotions, but nothing works. The rash appears to lay dormant for a time but always returns.

Will I ever outgrow this condition? Do you have any treatment tips?

A. I am not entirely convinced that you have tinea or that you are allergic to your own sweat.

Tinea is a fungal infection. There are several types of tinea, some of which cause ringworm (of the scalp or head), jock itch and athlete's foot.

Symptoms vary depending on the type of tinea that is present, but most appear as a circular red rash that is inflamed at the edges and has normal, healthy skin in the center; a round, flat, itchy patch; or slightly raised rings of scaly, red skin that expand in size (usually on the torso or face).

Ringworm is contagious and can be transmitted by other people, animals, on rare occasion from soil or even objects such as clothing, towels and bedding that is shared with the infected person. Those at higher risk include people who live in damp, humid or crowded conditions, sweat excessively, have weakened immune systems, participate in contact sports, wear tight or restrictive clothing, or have close contact with infected animals or people.

Prescription treatment is not always necessary. Mild to moderate cases often can be treated successfully using over-the-counter antifungal creams and lotions marketed for the treatment of jock itch or athlete's foot. For severe, persistent lesions (despite OTC treatments) or those with large affected areas, there are several prescription ointments and antifungal medications that can be given. Some may need to be treated with oral medications as well.

I urge you to ask your physician for a referral to a dermatologist who can examine and test your rash for a proper diagnosis. Dermatologists are notable for long wait times for appointments, so if yours should arrive during one of the periods when your rash is gone, it may be helpful for the physician to have pictures of the rash. While this will not allow for further testing, it will at least provide details of the rash, such as size and color.

I also recommend you keep track of when the rash occurs, how long it lasts, symptoms you experience, what preceded the rash and what treatments you used (including their effectiveness). This will also aid the dermatologist in diagnosis and treatment.

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