Ringworm treatment

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. Fungi are organisms that survive by eating plant or animal material. Those that cause parasitic infection (dermatophytes) feed on keratin, the material found in the outer layer of skin, hair, and nails. These fungi thrive best on skin that is moist, hot, and hidden from the light.

Ringworm infection in children
The common dermatophyte genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton are major causes of superficial fungal infections in children. These infections (e.g., tinea corporis, pedis, cruris, and unguium) are typically acquired directly from contact with infected humans or animals or indirectly from exposure to contaminated soil or fomites.
   Tinea capitis or ringworm of the scalp most commonly affects children and is often characterized by severe itching, dandruff and bald patches. It is a persistent and contagious fungal infection that usually does not respond to topical treatment. See also fungus infection page.

Ringworm treatment
Lamisil, known generically as terbinafine hydrochloride, from manufacturer Novartis AG., is available as granules. The antifungal granules can be sprinkled on a child's food to treat ringworm of the scalp. The child has to be older than 4 years.