Impetigo vs. Ringworm — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 30, 2023
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by red sores, while Ringworm is a fungal infection presenting as a red, itchy, circular rash.
Difference Between Impetigo and Ringworm
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Impetigo and Ringworm, while both are skin conditions, are caused by different types of microorganisms and manifest distinct symptoms. Impetigo is a bacterial infection, primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to the formation of red sores or blisters, which can rupture, ooze, and develop a honey-colored crust. Conversely, Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, characterized by a red, itchy, circular rash, resembling a worm in shape.
The mode of transmission for Impetigo and Ringworm is different, contributing to their spread in diverse manners. Impetigo is highly contagious, spreading through direct contact with the sores or nasal discharge of an infected individual, affecting predominantly children. Ringworm, on the other hand, spreads through direct contact with an infected person or animal or indirectly through contaminated objects, affecting individuals of all ages, but is commonly seen in those with compromised immune systems.
In terms of treatment, Impetigo and Ringworm require different approaches due to their differing causal agents. Impetigo, being bacterial, necessitates antibiotics, either topical or oral, depending on the severity, to eliminate the bacteria and resolve the infection. Ringworm, being a fungal condition, requires antifungal medications, which can be topical for mild cases and oral for more severe or widespread infections, to curb the growth of the fungus.
Preventive measures for Impetigo and Ringworm are crucial to control their spread. Maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and not sharing personal items can help prevent Impetigo. For Ringworm, maintaining skin dryness, avoiding sharing clothing, towels, and practicing good pet hygiene are essential preventive steps.
Impetigo and Ringworm, while distinct, both necessitate early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to avoid complications. Impetigo, if left untreated, can lead to cellulitis or kidney inflammation, while untreated Ringworm can lead to secondary bacterial infections and can spread to other parts of the body.
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Comparison Chart
Cause
Bacterial infection
Fungal infection
Organisms
Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes
Dermatophytes
Symptoms
Red sores, blisters, honey-colored crust
Red, itchy, circular rash
Transmission
Direct contact, nasal discharge
Direct or indirect contact, contaminated objects
Treatment
Antibiotics
Antifungal medications
Compare with Definitions
Impetigo
A skin disorder caused by bacteria, typically affecting children, resulting in the formation of pustules and yellow, crusty sores.
Regular handwashing can help in preventing the spread of impetigo among school-going children.
Ringworm
A skin infection resulting from fungi, characterized by ring-shaped, itchy, and scaly patches.
Pet owners should be vigilant as pets can be a source of ringworm infection.
Impetigo
A highly contagious skin infection characterized by red sores.
Children attending daycare are often more susceptible to contracting impetigo due to close contact with other children.
Ringworm
A contagious fungal infection of the skin, presenting as a circular, red, itchy rash.
Avoiding walking barefoot in communal showers can help prevent ringworm infections.
Impetigo
Infectious skin disease marked by the appearance of vesicles and pustules, especially around the nose and mouth.
Proper wound care and hygiene practices are essential to avoid the development of impetigo.
Ringworm
Dermatophyte-caused condition manifesting as a red, scaly, circular patch on the skin or scalp.
Treatment for ringworm usually involves antifungal creams to alleviate symptoms and stop the spread.
Impetigo
Bacterial skin condition manifesting as blisters or sores, primarily on the face, neck, hands, and diaper area.
Tim was advised to stay at home after being diagnosed with impetigo to avoid spreading the infection.
Ringworm
Fungal disorder affecting the skin, nails, or scalp, exhibiting as round lesions with a clearer center.
Keeping the skin clean and dry is crucial for avoiding ringworm infections.
Impetigo
A common and contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants and children, presenting with painful rash and fluid-filled blisters.
Immediate medical attention and treatment are vital when a child shows signs of impetigo to prevent complications.
Ringworm
A common infectious skin condition marked by circular patches with raised, red borders resembling a worm.
Early diagnosis and treatment of ringworm are essential to prevent its spread to other parts of the body.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a bacterial infection that involves the superficial skin. The most common presentation is yellowish crusts on the face, arms, or legs.
Ringworm
Any of a number of contagious skin diseases caused by several related fungi, characterized by ring-shaped, scaly, itching patches on the skin and generally classified by the location on the body. Also called tinea.
Impetigo
A contagious skin infection, usually of children, that is caused by staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria and is marked by superficial pustules and thick yellow crusts, commonly on the face.
Ringworm
A contagious fungal infection of the skin, characterised by ring-shaped discoloured patches, covered by vesicles or scales.
In superficial mycoses infection is localised to the skin, the hair, and the nails. An example is ringworm or tinea, an infection of the skin by a dermatophyte.
Impetigo
(pathology) A contagious bacterial skin disease forming pustules and yellow crusty sores, chiefly on the face and hands. It is common in children and infection is often through cuts or insect bites.
Ringworm
A contagious affection of the skin due to the presence of a vegetable parasite, and forming ring-shaped discolored patches covered with vesicles or powdery scales. It occurs either on the body, the face, or the scalp. Different varieties are distinguished as Tinea circinata, Tinea tonsurans, etc., but all are caused by the same parasite (a species of Trichophyton).
Impetigo
A cutaneous, pustular eruption, not attended with fever; usually, a kind of eczema with pustulation.
Ringworm
Infections of the skin or nails caused by fungi and appearing as itching circular patches
Impetigo
A very contagious infection of the skin; common in children; localized redness develops into small blisters that gradually crust and erode
Common Curiosities
Can Impetigo affect adults?
Yes, while more common in children, Impetigo can also affect adults, especially those with a weakened immune system.
Can Ringworm affect the nails?
Yes, Ringworm can affect nails, causing them to become discolored, thick, and crumbly.
Is Impetigo contagious?
Yes, Impetigo is highly contagious and can spread through close contact.
What does a Ringworm rash look like?
A Ringworm rash typically appears as a red, itchy, circular rash with a clearer center, resembling a ring.
What causes Impetigo?
Impetigo is caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
Is Ringworm actually caused by a worm?
No, Ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm.
How is Ringworm transmitted?
Ringworm is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or animal or through contaminated objects.
Can over-the-counter creams treat Ringworm?
Over-the-counter antifungal creams can effectively treat most cases of Ringworm.
Can Ringworm spread to other body parts?
Yes, Ringworm can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
How is Impetigo treated?
Impetigo is treated with topical or oral antibiotics depending on the severity.
Is it necessary to isolate a person with Impetigo?
It is advised to avoid close contact with individuals with Impetigo until 24 hours after treatment has begun.
Can Impetigo lead to any complications?
If left untreated, Impetigo can lead to complications like cellulitis, kidney inflammation, and scarring.
Can good hygiene prevent Impetigo?
Maintaining good hygiene, like regular handwashing and keeping wounds clean and covered, can help prevent Impetigo.
What are the common symptoms of Impetigo?
Common symptoms of Impetigo include red sores or blisters that can rupture, ooze, and develop a honey-colored crust.
How can Ringworm be prevented?
Maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and treating infected pets can help prevent Ringworm.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
