Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What causes tinea?

1. Bacteria

2. Parasites

3. Fungus

4. Viruses

The correct answer is: Fungus

Tinea, commonly known as ringworm, is caused by a fungal infection. The term "tinea" refers to various types of fungal infections that affect the skin, hair, and nails. These infections are caused by dermatophytes, which are a group of fungi that thrive on keratin found in the skin and hair. Fungal infections like tinea are characterized by their circular, ring-like appearance, leading to the term "ringworm" despite not being a worm at all. They can affect different areas of the body—such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea corporis (body), and tinea capitis (scalp)—and are contagious, spreading through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Understanding that tinea is caused specifically by fungi is crucial for proper treatment and prevention strategies, which may include antifungal medications or topical treatments specifically designed to eliminate fungal organisms. While bacteria, parasites, and viruses can cause various skin conditions, each has distinctly different characteristics and treatment modalities, making the identification of tinea as a fungal issue essential for appropriate care.