Effective Treatments for Cat Fungus in Humans: What to

Cat ringworm infections can also be transmitted to humans.

This is a fungal infection that originates from animals, primarily affecting cats. However, it can be passed on to humans as well, much like the spread of money, which is why it's sometimes referred to as "money ringworm." It is considered a type of tinea, a group of fungal infections.

Besides cat ringworm, other fungal infections that can be transmitted from animals to humans include those from dogs, rabbits, and hedgehogs. Individuals who keep these pets should be cautious if they develop red, circular rashes on their skin, as these could be signs of a fungal infection from animals. It's best to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis before applying any medication.

In subtropical regions, where temperatures and humidity are high, fungi thrive. Tinea is a type of fungus, and tinea infections are commonly referred to as "ringworm." Depending on the infected area, medical terms vary, such as tinea pedis (foot), tinea capitis (head), tinea cruris (groin), and tinea corporis (trunk or limbs).

Tinea corporis, also known as "money ringworm" or "round ringworm," initially presents as red papules or small blisters on the skin. After the blisters dry up, scaling occurs, and the rash gradually expands outward, forming a ringlike or multiringed pattern with elevated edges and clear boundaries, resembling a copper coin.

Treatment for tinea corporis includes:

Maintain dryness: While keeping dryness may not directly treat the infection, it is crucial for preventing the condition from worsening or recurring.

Avoid selfmedication: Overthecounter ointments often come in two types: those that are not targeted to the specific infection and those containing potent corticosteroids. While corticosteroids may temporarily alleviate itching, they can often lead to fungal growth, exacerbating the infection.

Oral antifungal medications: These include griseofulvin or itraconazole, among others. (Ketoconazole, which was previously commonly used, has been banned by the Ministry of Health due to severe liver toxicity.)

Patience in treatment: To achieve a complete cure, it is essential to be persistent with medication, continuing treatment until the lesions are completely gone and then applying it for an additional two weeks. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to recurrence. It's also important to have pets examined and treated by a veterinarian to prevent continuous reinfection.