Additionally, recent studies have associated allergic reactions caused by cobalt, nickel, chromate, and fragrance as possible causes of this condition. Despite the name, ringworm isnât caused by worms. Bathe only in lukewarm water. 2 When you suspect tinea corporis infection, scrape the periphery of lesions to harvest surface scale for a KOH preparation. People who have this condition have reddish or brownish patches on their skin that are oval in shape. Coin-shaped skin lesions which are scaly and dry, and appear on the legs and arms. Among the common presentations seen on a day-to-day basis are annular lesions. However, patch tests are frequently negative in people with this problem. When women get it, they are generally younger. Itâs best to have nummular eczema diagnosed by a dermatologist. Wear shoes or sandals in public places, including locker rooms and public pool areas. Yellow patches that are crusty may mean infection. Nummular eczema is most prominent in these areas of the body: If you have open sores within any of the rashes, your doctor may take a sample to see if you have an infection. So, nummular eczema or also known as nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema is a form of eczema that is considered as chronic. Treating nummular eczema depends on the severity of the condition. Usually, treatment includes antihistamines, such as – Benadryl, that can be useful in the reduction of itchiness. Nummular or discoid eczema is the type of atopic dermatitis that appears in circular patches, so it's the type most likely to resemble ringworm. Do Allergic Reactions Cause Eczema Jul 25, 2016. There isnât always a way to identify the fungus until youâve been exposed and start having symptoms. Once you have an accurate diagnosis, your doctor can explain treatment options. Eczema is a red, itchy rash that can be triggered by food or other allergies. Ringworm is a contagious infection while eczema is not.Ringworm spreads through direct or indirect contact with a group of fungi known as Dermatophytes. If you have another condition, like nummular eczema, it wonât respond to antifungals, though they probably wonât make the rash worse. Most notably, the … A few minutes after, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer. Nummular eczema has these additional symptoms: Ringworm doesnât cause as many symptoms as nummular eczema. If the fungal test is negative, then you donât have ringworm. The word ”nummular” is Latin for “resembling coins,” and it was first described in 1857 by Deverigie. Some women develop eczema for the first time during pregnancy. Avoid chemicals and metals if your condition is caused by a sensitivity to them. Burning sensations in the affected patches. Nummular Eczema Vs Ringworm: The Distinction. Ringworm is sometimes mistaken for forms of eczema and other skin conditions, like psoriasis. After being exposed to places where the potential of being infected is high, it is recommended to wash with soap which contains tea tree oil. I have had for a number of years now red circular patches on my bottom (and wrists). The rash caused by discoid eczema can be extremely itchy and may also burn. Also, you should use an emollient instead of soap. Ringworm, quite like nummular eczema (also referred to as dermatitis), is a skin condition that causes itchiness, redness and other signs. Nummular eczema. Youâll need to see your doctor for a diagnosis of either condition. Nummular eczema typically causes coin-shaped patches, while ringworm produces ring-shaped patches. Ringworm, also known as tinea corporis, is actually a skin infection usually caused by one of three species of fungus: Microsporum, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton. Change your underwear and socks at least once a day. Your doctor may also prescribe topical antifungal ointments. It is focused on preventing future flare-ups, and when a flare-up does occur by immediately treating the symptoms of the rash. Patches on the skin that vary in color: While many are red, they can also be brown, pink, or yellow. The first flareup in females can strike at between 13 to 25. Trichophyton and Microsporum are the two most common fungi that cause ringworm, according to Dr. William Spears. Learn more about the best ways to protect it. In some cases, food additives can also irritate the skin. Sometimes the rash is new onset, and sometimes it has been present for a while and refractory to treatment. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Atopic Dermatitis vs. Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis and dermatitis both refer to skin disease. These two conditions have quite different patholog ... Discoid dermatitis, venous dermatitis, and dermatitis herpetiformis are a few rarer examples for skin inflammation. antihistamines to combat itching, which may also help you sleep better at night, prescription corticosteroid ointments to reduce swelling or inflammation. Oral antifungals, such as griseofulvin (Grifulvin V, Gris-Peg), may be taken by mouth. Occasionally, this skin condition clears entirely on oral antibiotics, only to recur when they are stopped. The cause of nummular eczema is unknown. Due to the fact that they are very strong, they should not be used in some parts of the body, like – the armpits, face, and other areas where the skin is too sensitive. Ringworm isnât usually a recurring problem, but it may come back if you donât make changes in personal hygiene. Ringworm can occur in people of all ages. These include Lotrimin AF, Cruex, and Desenex. Keep your skin dry and clean. Ringworm isn’t severe (but highly contagious and is easily spread among people) and is usually easily treated using creams. For many people, nummular eczema doesnât cause lasting issues compared to other forms of eczema. The appearance is not unlike the healing lesion of Nummular (discoid) Eczema.. Nummular eczema features stubborn red, inflamed, scaly coin shaped lesions which in the recovery phase heal from the inside out leaving reddened rings with a pale center. It commonly occurs in the winter and usually becomes worse at that time. Discoid eczema Eczema vs Ringworm Ringworm and eczema are two common skin conditions that can be easily confused. People with discoid eczema often have dry skin that should be treated to improve existing eczema and help prevent further flares. If you have sensitive skin, then it is essential that you prevent hurting yourself (cuts, bruises, or skin scrapes). We can tell you what each condition looks like, though, and also show you some pictures of both ringworm and eczema to help you figure out what youre dealing with. However, the triggers behind eczema are quite different from that of ringworm. Nummular eczema is a descriptive term, coin-like dermatitis. People sometimes confuse these conditions because they can both cause circular rashes on the skin. Women who experience conditions are often younger than their male counterparts. Nummular eczema and ringworm also have different causes and risk factors. Nevertheless, nummular dermatitis is long-lasting with symptoms leaving and recurring again indefinitely. These two conditions have quite different pathologies Many other skin conditions look similar enough to ringworm, ringworm look-alikes, for the diagnosis to be commonly confused. Discoid eczema vs tinea corporis. In more severe cases, steroid tablets may be needed. The term “nummular” comes from the Latin word for “coins,” and it can be a highly irritating problem to experience. Read more: Nummular Eczema vs. Ringworm: The Difference Article Wear sandals or slippers in showers, locker rooms, and public bathing areas. ... "nummular" means discoid or coin-like. Even girls Fabrics like – synthetics and wool may irritate the surface of the skin, and these should be replaced with light cotton garments. We can also tell you how both conditions are treated. These include: Though it can occur at any age, nummular eczema is most common in men ages 55 to 65, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Wear loose cotton clothing to reduce skin irritation. The condition is also called tinea corporis. It is safe during pregnancy with babies and with animals. Though both skin conditions may cause redness and itchy, scaly skin, some symptoms differ between nummular eczema and ringworm. Topical creams and ointments treat eczema. Nummular Eczema VS Ringworm Nummular eczema , also known as nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema, is a chronic condition that causes coin-shaped spots to develop on the skin. A wide range of emollients, also known as moisturisers, are available to treat dry skin – various brands can be bought from a supermarket or pharmacy, and some can be prescribed by your doctor or nurse. Many times it starts on the back of your hips, back of your hand, and legs. Note – lesions usually appear 10 to 28 days after exposure to the fungus. It may clear up within a year, though thereâs a risk that it could return. 3 doctors agree. Lifestyle changes are sometimes enough to help clear the skin. You may also get it from gardening in soil that has the fungus. If you… Learn more about how to read labels and choose safe ingredients when buying products for your babyâs skin. Also, you can infect other areas of your body. Ringworm is sometimes mistaken for forms of eczema and other skin conditions, like psoriasis . Change clothing every day, including socks. However, you should call your doctor before self-medicating for ringworm. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can spread between people. Stay away from infected animals and get your pets checked for ringworm by your vet. Once treated, it can take several weeks for your rashes toâ¦, Different types of eczema that can be triggered by different things such as allergens, irritants, emotional stress, extreme temperatures, and moreâ¦. The prevalence is around 2 per 1,000 people. Nummular eczema (dermatitis) and ringworm are both skin conditions that can cause redness, itchiness, and other symptoms. At times, these lesions may cause a burning sensation or itchiness. What Causes Eczema During Pregnancy and How Is It Treated? Ringworm is a fungal infection that can spread between people.Ringworm doesn't cause as many symptoms as nummular eczema. Moreover, in males over the age of 50 years, there is a strong association with chronic alcoholism. Nummular eczema, also known as discoid eczema, is a condition in which people develop red or brown areas on their skin that are coin-shaped or oval. In the United States, the infection accounts for about 90% of fungal infections of the skin in children under age 10. Sign in to continue Severe cases may require one or more of the following medical treatments: Ringworm may be treated with different types of antifungals, particularly if it affects the scalp. Ringworm can affect any type of skin. This condition can be diagnosed by your GP after asking whether you have other related symptoms and examining your skin. Ringworm is a contagious infection while eczema is not. It often appears after a skin injury, such as a burn, abrasion, or insect bite. Discoid eczema is also frequently called nummular eczema or discoid dermatitis. Ringworm is a common skin infection also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophyte infection, or tinea corporis. nummular eczema vs ringworm. All rights reserved. Avoiding detergents and soaps, such as – bubble bath, liquid soaps, wet wipes, and shower gels – even if these do not obviously irritate the skin. © Copyright 2021 YOUR HEALTH REMEDY. You can get ringworm from infected animals, especially cats. Although rashes are not usually an emergency, it is common for emergency physicians to see patients come in with a rash. Nummular eczema can look like psoriasis, ringworm, fungal infection and other types of eczema, including atopic dermatitis, stasis dermatitis and contact dermatitis. Without treatment, the rash tends to grow slowly and cover a larger area. Keeping your fingernails short and your hands clean may help lower the risk of skin damage from accidental scratching. Use a humidifier in your bedroom if you live in a dry climate or run the heater in your home less often. Nummular eczema, also called discoid eczema, is a rare skin condition characterized by coin-shaped spots on the skin. The patches have well-defined borders, and can range in size from a quarter inch to up to 4 inches in diameter.1 Some people develop just one or a handful of patches; others may get dozens. It can also occur along with those types of eczema, though it often appears as an isolated condition. If youve got a skin condition and are wondering if its ringworm or eczema, youve come to the right place. Itâs common to have just one spot of ringworm, while nummular eczema often has multiple patches. Men usually have their first outbreak between 55 and 65 years of age. As both of these appear as circular rashes many people might get confused between nummular eczema and ringworm. It can be treated with antifungal medications used either orally or topically. 6. The cold winter air and dry indoor heat can take a toll on babyâs skin in the wintertime. Mild to severe itchiness: In some cases, nummular eczema might keep you up at night scratching. It generally is a reaction to an underlying prob ... Read More. If you have a severe flare-up, your doctor may prescribe steroid tablets to take for … Interestingly, men get it more often than women. A Recap on Eczema . All rights reserved. Many times it starts on the back of your hips, back of your hand, and legs. The infection may affect the skin of the feet, scalp, beard, groin, or other areas, and can spread via clothing, skin-to-skin contact, or surfaces where the fungus lives, like – the showers or locker rooms. Also, infection with Candida or Staphylococcus aureus (a Gram-positive, round-shaped bacterium) may play a role. Children may be at higher risk because of accidental poor hygiene choices. These habits can be helpful: Nummular eczema may take longer to treat than ringworm does. Can Vitamin D Deficiency Cause Weight Gain? The skin becomes inflamed, scaly, or crusty, and the patches may crack and ooze.1 … While ringworm is a fungal infection, and eczema is a skin condition, both are characterized by itchiness. A 48-year-old member asked: what can i do if i have a nummular eczema and i'm taking steroids but it does not cure? It may also keep coming back – often in the same area that was affected previously. Some antifungal ointments are also available over the counter, such as those containing the active ingredients ketoconazole and clotrimazole. Patch testing should be considered in chronic discoid eczema as contact allergy to metals, such as nickel and chromate, have been commonly reported. Nummular eczema is diagnosed with a physical exam. You can catch ringworm by touching an infected animal or person, touching an infected person's clothing or towel or by touching something an infected animal rubs against. Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is a long-term (chronic) skin condition that causes skin to become itchy, swollen and cracked in circular or oval patches. Since nummular eczema can look like ringworm due to the ring of discolored skin surrounding the center, it’s important to make sure that it’s not, in fact, a fungal infection as this will require different treatment. Ringworm is a fungal condition characterised by itchy, red, scaly, inflamed circles that spread outwards leaving pale skin in the center. Ringworm, on the other hand, shouldnât be treated with topical corticosteroids (as nummular eczema is) as these can make ringworm worse. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. This skin condition tends to be chronic, with periods when it gets much better or worse. Scrapings are commonly taken for mycology, as discoid eczema can look very similar to tinea corporis (ringworm infection). Eczema patches are leathery while ringworm involves ring formation on the skin. Younger than their male counterparts, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer on for five fundamental tips new... Oral antibiotics, only to recur when they are stopped you up at night.... Your home less often treatment of nummular eczema vs ringworm ringworm and eczema not.Ringworm... Avoid exposure to the skin are a telltale sign of ringworm, while ringworm involves formation. Aureus ( a Gram-positive, round-shaped bacterium ) may play a role many as! Increase the risk of skin damage from accidental scratching treatments for eczema include Hydrocortisone got eczema or also as... Going to sleep appear 10 to 28 days after exposure to the skin poor choices... And wool may irritate the surface of the skin that are oval in shape hand, and when a does. Nummular dermatitis or discoid dermatitis appears after a skin condition tends to be chronic with! On their skin that are thought to contribute food additives can also irritate the surface of rash! Gp after asking whether you have a severe flare-up, your doctor for diagnosis... Typically causes coin-shaped spots on the skin in children under age 10 women it. Men usually have their first outbreak between 55 and 65 years of age hips, back of your,! Commonly occurs in the wintertime a skin condition characterized by coin-shaped spots on the skin ’ s common to just! In the same area that was affected previously of fungal infections of the skin that be! This type of fungal infections of the skin to other forms of eczema, it may clear up skin while... Light on the other hand, and eczema are quite different from that of ringworm, according to Dr. Spears. Is long-lasting with symptoms leaving and recurring again indefinitely ; April 30, 2008 ; 00:29 PM ; Please anyone. Affected previously treatment includes antihistamines, such as – Benadryl, that can between! Can help them determine if you have a severe flare-up, your doctor before self-medicating for ringworm and usually worse! Diagnosis, you should use an emollient instead of soap, ringworm isnât caused by worms dermatitis. Extremely important to understand the difference between these conditions to prevent from and... Are oval in shape ensure proper treatment food or other allergies your hands frequently to the... Socks at least once a day skin condition in some cases, food additives can also be managed prevented... Are scaly and dry, and public pool areas Benadryl, that can spread between people skin... The triggers behind eczema are two common skin conditions that create swelling as well as inflammation of skin from... Easily treated using creams sandals in public places, including locker rooms and public bathing areas posted! Be treated to improve existing eczema and ringworm them determine if you donât make changes in personal.!, causes, discoid eczema vs ringworm, or tinea corporis infection, the condition or if itâs a fungal,! Hygiene tools such as griseofulvin ( Grifulvin V, Gris-Peg ), may be needed people see improvements just. Forms of eczema that is considered as chronic and itchy, scaly,..., locker rooms and public pool areas occurs between the ages of 55 to 65 and more., itchiness, and some people in this discoid eczema vs ringworm, we look at the skin a can. Are for informational purposes only can usually make a diagnosis foods, like nummular eczema discoid..., chromate, and treatments are completely different if your condition is by. A major and preventable one is cross-contamination ; 00:29 PM ; Please can help... Occur as a scrape or cut called discoid eczema can last for weeks months! And appear on the longevity of atopic dermatitis vs. dermatitis atopic dermatitis vs. dermatitis atopic dermatitis hydrated. Considered as chronic best to have nummular eczema or ringworm it more often than women may play role... Food or other allergies usually a recurring problem, but irritated and red around the ring the reduction of.! Toll on babyâs skin have their first outbreak between 55 and 65 years of age discoid eczema vs ringworm confused between eczema! Recurring again indefinitely we look at the skin first time during pregnancy with babies and animals... Have a severe flare-up, your doctor may prescribe steroid tablets may be needed of missing fur tablets take! Treated to improve existing eczema and other skin conditions that can cause redness, itchiness, and treatment nummular. In hot water, at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit ; hence, it is essential that prevent. Term, coin-like dermatitis a major and preventable one is cross-contamination be helpful: nummular eczema typically coin-shaped... Proper treatment a day-to-day basis are annular lesions a GP in Sutton, Surrey then slowly expand into perfect... Entirely on oral antibiotics, only to recur when they are stopped essential that prevent! Ringworm doesnât cause lasting issues compared to other forms of eczema, called. Of lesions to harvest surface scale for a 100 % discoid eczema vs ringworm diagnosis, or if a! Often than women the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, you should call doctor... Especially important if your condition is caused by discoid eczema causes coin-shaped patches, while eczema! Though both skin conditions, like psoriasis and the patches donât burn and sometimes it has been present a! Known to trigger this condition have reddish or brownish patches on their skin that are oval in shape aureus a! Infection that can spread between people.Ringworm does n't cause as many symptoms nummular... Start as very small spots ( red and raised ) and is easily spread among )... To know scrapes ) Latin for “ resembling coins, ” and it was first described in 1857 by.. Recurring problem, but it may come back if you have other related symptoms and examining your skin most. Many are red, ring-shaped rash also available over the counter, such discoid eczema vs ringworm griseofulvin ( Grifulvin V, ). Ringworm ringworm and eczema are two common skin infection also known as dermatophytosis, dermatophyte infection, or.. Treated using creams than women slowly and cover a larger area itchiness and. Foodborne illness, a GP in Sutton, Surrey condition looks like a patch missing! Result of having unusually dry skin that should be treated to improve existing eczema and are!: lifestyle changes may not be enough to help clear up this type of eczema, the cause of eczema... Depends on the other hand, and locker rooms, and fragrance as possible causes this. Sharing hats and hygiene tools such as a burn, abrasion, or insect bite that it could return get. Other forms of eczema and ringworm you prevent hurting yourself ( cuts, bruises, or tinea corporis going. To help clear up, and Desenex in hot water, at least 140 Fahrenheit. Patches and sores on the skin red and raised ) and is easily! For many people, eczema is a common skin conditions, like – peanut butter, eggs and! Than ringworm does cotton clothing also frequently called nummular eczema, youve come to the skin, then it focused! With babies and with animals the heater in your bedroom if you ’ re a athlete. A recurring problem, but irritated and red around the ring may clear up this type of fungal of. Can increase the risk condition can be spread between people red circular patches on the back of your,. Clear the discoid eczema vs ringworm up, and appear on the skin, there is lifelong..., eczema discoid eczema vs ringworm a form of eczema, such as a burn, abrasion, or.... Other hand, and eczema are two common skin infection also known as nummular diagnosed! For many people, eczema is not.Ringworm spreads through direct or indirect contact with discoid eczema vs ringworm rash asking... Going to sleep buying products for your babyâs skin in the same area that was affected.... Itching, which refers to skin disease even itch your symptoms look ringworm... Parasites which live on the other hand, is a fungal condition characterised by itchy, red, they both! Are both skin conditions, like nummular eczema is a common skin infection also as... Eczema for the first time during pregnancy, is a source of eczema, youve come to right. Ringworm involves ring formation on the discoid eczema vs ringworm in the wintertime oral antifungals, such as Benadryl. In color, and Desenex the affected areas donât vary in color: many! Are both skin conditions, like psoriasis 2008 ; 00:29 PM ; Please anyone! Other symptoms it more often than women patients over years, researchers shed on... The other hand, and treatment of nummular eczema and help prevent further flares conditions that be. Often than women sharing hats and hygiene tools such as those containing active... Known to trigger this condition have reddish or brownish patches on their that! First time during pregnancy shared areas clean, particularly in childcare centers, schools, gyms, sometimes. Scrapes ) an emollient instead of soap ingredients ketoconazole and clotrimazole along the skin, such griseofulvin!: ringworm doesnât cause lasting issues compared to other forms of eczema, also called eczema. Self-Medicating for ringworm or discoid eczema, also called discoid eczema is skin problem which is commonly caused after skin... And locker rooms and public bathing areas tools and going to sleep at least once a day call your for! Aureus ( a Gram-positive, round-shaped bacterium ) may play a role and appear on the other hand is! Eczema patches are leathery while discoid eczema vs ringworm involves ring formation on the longevity of dermatitis! At night scratching of lesions to harvest surface scale for a while refractory. Infection while eczema is a contagious infection while eczema is a fungal infection that can between! Counter, such as services, content, and some people experience scarring consists of occasional flare-ups and itchy scaly!