Crofton Health Clinic
88 Crofton Lane, Orpington, Kent, BR5 1HD
88 Crofton Lane, Orpington, Kent, BR5 1HD
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Tinea is Latin for "gnawing worm".
This disease effects the top layer of the skin. The fungus lives off the dead layer of skin, hair and nails and therefore can not survive elsewhere. Most infections are caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes and are often called ringworm, which you may have heard before. This can easily mimic other diseases so careful observation is necessary to determine Tinea. Tineal infections may be acquired from another person, from an animal, from soil, from the floors of showers, or from household objects such as chairs or carpets.
The appearance and symptoms of Tinea vary according to the location of the fungal disease.
Tinea of the hand and foot. Tinea of the foot is commonly found between the 4th & 5th toes and this is named "athletes foot". Very common in males and uncommon in females. Rare in children.
Tinea of the body. This can occur at any age but less common in children. Tends to occur in summer and warm climates. Itching is described as mild to fairly severe.
Tinea of the nails. Usually develops after Tinea of the hand or foot, but can appear on it's own. Mainly effecting the adult population, in children it is very rare. The nails tend to thicken and turn white or yellow. Trauma to the nail can lead to predisposition to infection.
Tinea of the groin. Also commonly known as "jock itch". A reddened area is produces around the genitals which spreads out towards the insides of the thighs. Occurring most frequently in summer due to sweating, or in winter from many clothes leading to the same problem. Most common in men and rarely seen in women and children.
Traditional Chinese names translate as follows:
Chinese Herbal Medicine can be very effective in the treatment of any fungal disease.
Treatment with biomedicine is with antifungal drugs in the form of skin creams, lotions or ointments. For extensive fungal disease sometimes an antifungal tablet is given to try an eradicate the disease.