Nummular Eczema vs Ringworm: Key Differences and Treatment

• Typically affects the arms, legs, back, or buttocks. 

• Lesions are often dry, scaly, and intensely itchy. 

• May ooze or crust over if scratched. 

• Tends to recur and can become chronic. 

• Often associated with dry skin and other types of eczema, such as atopic dermatitis. 

• Red, circular, and slightly raised patches. 

• Typically has a clearer center, giving it a “ring” appearance. 

• Itchy, and may be slightly scaly at the edges. 

• Commonly appears on the arms, legs, face, and trunk. 

• May spread to other parts of the body. 

• Dry skin: Especially during winter or after long, hot showers. 

• Allergens: Soaps, detergents, metals like nickel, or fragrances. 

• Environmental factors: Low humidity, heat, or cold. 

• Stress: Emotional stress is a known exacerbator. 

• Other conditions: Often seen in people with asthma or atopic dermatitis. 

• Human contact: From another infected person. 

• Animal contact: Pets like cats and dogs can carry the fungi. 

• Contaminated objects: Towels, combs, gym equipment, etc. 

• Environment: Locker rooms, communal showers, and swimming pools. 

• Clinical examination: Based on lesion appearance and patient history. 

• Skin biopsy (if needed): May help rule out other similar conditions. 

• Patch testing: To identify any allergen sensitivities. 

• Wood’s lamp test: A UV light test that can reveal fungal infections. 

• KOH test: A skin scraping is examined under a microscope for fungal elements. 

• Fungal culture: Used for a definitive diagnosis, although results take longer. 

1. Topical corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and itching. 

2. Moisturizers and emollients: Restore the skin’s barrier and prevent dryness. 

3. Antihistamines: Alleviate itching, especially at night. 

4. Topical calcineurin inhibitors, Such as tacrolimus, are used for sensitive areas. 

5. Antibiotics: If the lesions become secondarily infected. 

6. Phototherapy: UV light therapy can be helpful in chronic or widespread cases. 

7. Avoidance of triggers: Including allergens, harsh soaps, and environmental extremes. 

1. Topical antifungals: Clotrimazole, terbinafine, miconazole, or ketoconazole creams. 

2. Oral antifungals: For severe or widespread infections, medications like fluconazole or griseofulvin are prescribed. 

Hygiene practices: 

1. Wash affected areas regularly and keep them dry. 

2. Avoid sharing personal items. 

3. Disinfect contaminated surfaces and laundry. 

• Risk of secondary infections due to constant scratching. 

• Chronic nature can lead to emotional distress and sleep disturbances. 

• May require long-term dermatological care and lifestyle adjustments. 

• Spreads rapidly if not treated, especially in communal settings. 

• Can lead to tinea capitis (scalp infection), tinea pedis (athlete's foot), or tinea cruris (jock itch). 

• Rare cases may cause kerion—a painful, pus-filled lesion, especially in children. 

• Rash doesn’t improve with OTC creams. 

• There’s pain, oozing, or crusting. 

• The condition spreads quickly. 

• You’re unsure about the diagnosis.

• Moisturize regularly with fragrance-free lotions. 

• Use gentle, hypoallergenic skin products. 

• Avoid prolonged hot showers. 

• Wear breathable, cotton fabrics. 

• Manage stress through yoga, meditation, or counseling. 

• Keep skin clean and dry, especially after sweating. 

• Avoid walking barefoot in public showers or locker rooms. 

• Wash clothing, towels, and bed linens frequently. 

• Don’t share personal items like razors, combs, or hats. 

• Check pets for signs of fungal infections.