How is ringworm detected?

Ringworm is detected primarily based on the appearance of the skin. A scraping or culture of the affected area may be done by your doctor.

Ringworm is recognized by:

• Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply-defined edges. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center. This may create the appearance of a ring. The skin may also appear unusually dark or light.
• Round, scaly patches with broken off hairs or bald patches in the scalp or beard if infected.
• Nails that become discolored, thick and crumble if infected.