I have a fungal infection on my left arm (tinea corporis) -should i worry?

i've seen the doctor already and she said its normal and its probalby from my dog (i know thats really gross) but there are no spots on my dogs body so im pretty confused where it came from - could it be from another person?

Tinea corporis is an infection of the body surface by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top

The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, mold-like fungi (dermatophytes), and yeast-like fungi (such as Candida). Some of these are useful to the body. Others may multiply rapidly and cause symptoms.

Tinea corporis (often called ringworm of the body) is a common skin disorder, especially among children, but it may occur in people of all ages. It is caused by mold-like fungi (dermatophytes). See also tinea capitis (involving the scalp), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea pedis (athlete's foot).

Fungi thrive in warm, moist areas. Susceptibility to fungal infection is increased by poor hygiene, prolonged wetness of the skin (such as from sweating), and minor skin or nail injuries.

Tinea infections are contagious and can be passed by direct contact with affected individuals or by contact with contaminated items such as combs, clothing, shower, or pool surfaces. They can also be transmitted by contact with pets that carry the fungus (cats are common carriers).

Symptoms Return to top

Itching of the affected area
Skin lesion, rash
On the arms, legs, face, trunk (usually exposed body areas)
Ring shaped
Reddened patch (abnormally dark or light skin)
Borders advance and spread and the center clears
Borders appear scaly, distinct
Signs and tests Return to top

The diagnosis is primarily based on the appearance of the skin. If tests are used, they may include the following:

A KOH (potassium hydroxide) test, in which skin scrapings are dissolved in KOH and then examined under a microscope. This test is painless and easy, and the results are available immediately.
A skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination or culture to look for dermatophytes.
Treatment Return to top

Keep the skin clean and dry. Topical (applied to the skin) over-the-counter antifungal creams, such as those that contain miconazole, clotrimazole, or similar ingredients, are often effective in controlling ringworm.

Severe or chronic infection may require further treatment by the health care provider. Oral antifungal medications may be given. Stronger, prescription topical antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole may be needed. Antibiotics may be needed to treat secondary bacterial infections. Infected pets should be treated.

I have had a fungus in my mouth for almost 4 years. 3 of those years were because none of the dentists I went to listened to me when I told them there was a problem!! Mine is being cleared up via some lozenges and it is a pain!!

I have never heard of a dog passing anything to a human except fleas or unless you were bitten. I would have a seriously hard time believing something came from your dog especially if your dog has no outbreaks of anything on it's skin. I tend to believe your doctor is being lazy and not wanting to do a culture on it. Maybe a dermatologist would be the way to go in your case. I also have eczema and it looks like a rash as well but it isn't. Ask for a second opinion for it cause I think your doctor is a quack. Good luck!!

The fungus that causes Tinea Corporis is actually pretty much every where. It is impossible to avoid. Some peoples' bodies are susceptable to the fungus taking hold on their skin. This is why some people are more likely to get it than others. It is not harmful and is easily treated with over the counter anti-fungal creams twice a day for a few days. You can also wash the area with selson blue shampoo. Don't get rid of your dog! Also it is also not from another person.

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