Ringworm, Thrush, Jock itch, Tinea, Athletes foot…What do these conditions all have in common?

They are all fungal conditions but are frequently mistaken for one of the eczemas.

Fungi are primitive plantlike organisms that feed on organic matter. Fungi may exist for years and are difficult to control. They thrive in warm moist conditions such as skin creases.

Fungi are responsible for a variety of common skin infections. The fungi are unable to penetrate and survive below the outer dead keratin layers of the skin so these conditions are superficial. These infections are commonly transferred from animal to person but may also be transferred from person to person. To prevent the spread of fungal infections good hygeine is imperative.

As with any group of diseases the symptoms of the fungal skin infections vary. However the common features among them are redness and itching. It is the itching and redness that create the confusion between these conditions and eczema.

Eczema is not a fungal infection

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition. It is in no way related to fungi, however a fungal infection may develop on top of the weakened eczema skin. As the conditions are unrelated they require different treatments. Fungal conditions respond quickly to good hygiene, dry conditions and antifungal creams

Antifungal creams will not treat eczema

Some of the features may be similar but eczema and fungal conditions are very different. Consult your doctor if you are unsure what your rash is.