What type of infection is tinea?

Tinea is classified as a fungal infection. It is caused by a group of fungi known as dermatophytes, which thrive on keratin found in the skin, hair, and nails. These fungi can lead to various skin conditions, commonly referred to as "ringworm," despite not being caused by a worm. The term "tinea" is often followed by a specific location on the body, such as tinea corporis (body), tinea pedis (athlete's foot), or tinea capitis (scalp), which helps identify the affected area.

Being a fungal infection means that symptoms can vary based on the area affected but generally include red, itchy patches, sometimes forming ring-like appearances. Treatment often involves antifungal creams or oral medications to eliminate the infection and prevent its spread.

Understanding that tinea is purely a fungal infection is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially in differentiating it from other types of infections, which have different underlying causes and consequently different approaches to management.