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Ringworm vs. Eczema: Differences in Cause, Appearance & Treatment
Both cause itchy, red skin, but ringworm (tinea corporis) is fungal while eczema (atopic dermatitis) is inflammatory.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Feature | Ringworm (Tinea) | Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Dermatophyte fungi (Trichophyton, Microsporum) | Barrier defect + immune dysregulation (genetic + environmental) |
| Typical Lesion | Annular, scaly, raised border, central clearing ("ring") | Ill‑defined, erythematous, dry, lichenified patches; flexural distribution |
| Itch | Mild‑moderate | Intense, often nocturnal |
| Contagious | Yes (skin‑to‑skin, fomites, pets) | No |
| Diagnosis | KOH prep (hyphae), fungal culture, PCR | Clinical; biopsy if atypical |
| Treatment | Topical terbinafine/ketoconazole/clotrimazole × 2–4 wks; oral if extensive | Emollients + topical corticosteroids/TCIs (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus); phototherapy; systemic for severe |
| Chronicity | Curable | Chronic, relapsing |
When Unsure
See a clinician. KOH prep is quick, office‑based. Misdiagnosis leads to steroid misuse on fungus → tinea incognito (worsening).
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