Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophyte infection or tinea, is a fungal infection of the skin. “Ringworm” is a misnomer since it is caused by fungus, not a worm. However, the lesion resembles a worm in the shape of a ring, leading to this name. This fungus can affect both humans and animals. The infection initially appears as red patches on affected areas of the skin and later may spread to other parts of the body. It may affect the scalp, feet, nails, groin, beard or other areas.

EBO MD uses a ringworm test to properly diagnose this fungal infection. With a skin infection, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Red, itchy or scaly patches, or raised areas of skin called plaques
• Patches that develop blisters or pustules
• Patches that may be redder on the outside edges or resemble a ring
• Patches with edges that are defined and raised

Your care provider can diagnose ringworm by examining your skin and possibly using a black light to view your skin in the affected area. Depending on the type of fungus, it may sometimes glow under black light.

• If you’re getting either a skin biopsy or fungal culture, your care provider will take a sample of your skin or discharge from a blister and send it to a lab to rest it for the presence of fungus.
• If you’re getting a KOH exam, your doctor will scrape a small area of infected skin onto a slide and place drops of liquid called potassium hydroxide (KOH) on it. The KOH breaks apart normal skin cells, making the fungal elements easier to see under a microscope.

Diagnostic testing, such as a ringworm test, gathers information critical to correct diagnosis and the monitoring of conditions that can drastically affect your life. If we can do it in-house, your membership covers the cost. Any tests that must be sent out will receive the very best wholesale prices we can negotiate for you.

Contact us today to see how EBO MD can change your life.