Ringworm occurs when a type of fungus called tinea grows and multiplies on your skin. Most frequently, ringworm results in itchy, scaly, and irritated skin and bald patches if the scalp or beard areas are involved. When tinea occurs in different places on the body, the name changes but the word tinea will always occur in the name. For example, ringworm that affects the beard is called tinea barbae, the body is called tinea corporis, the foot is called tinea pedis, the groin area is called tinea cruris, and the scalp is called tinea capitis. Ringworm can easily spread from one person to another by touching someone who has the infection, or coming into contact with items contaminated by the fungus, such as combs, unwashed clothing, the toilet, and shower or pool surfaces. You can also catch ringworm from pets such as cats and dogs. Ringworm, in animals, c causes raised circular areas that frequently are crusted over and associated with hair loss. However, some