Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the common name for Tinea corporis?

1. Ringworm

2. Athlete's foot

3. Jock itch

4. Fungal infection

The correct answer is: Ringworm

Tinea corporis, commonly referred to as ringworm, is a fungal infection that impacts the skin. The term "ringworm" is derived from the characteristic circular or ring-shaped lesions that can appear on the skin, resembling a worm under the surface. This name can be misleading, as the condition is not caused by a worm but rather by dermatophyte fungi that can thrive in warm, moist environments. Understanding the terminology is crucial for estheticians, as they may encounter clients with this condition and need to provide appropriate advice or referrals. While athlete's foot and jock itch are specific types of tinea infections affecting the feet and groin area, respectively, they are not synonymous with tinea corporis. Similarly, calling it a general fungal infection broadens the scope unnecessarily, as tinea corporis specifically refers to the infection on the body. Therefore, ringworm is the precise and widely recognized term for this particular fungal skin condition.