Fungi enter the skin and spreads to tissues, bones and other organs, causing fungal infection. It is characterised by itching with eruptions.

The fungal infection can affect any organ of the body through the skin. The common regions are skin (as ringworm), toes (athletes toes), vagina (candidiasis), inner thighs, groin, buttocks and inside of the mouth and lungs.

Fungal spores present in the air and soil, when inhaled or contacted on the skin, can spread infections. They also spread from skin-to-skin contact. Fungi multiply in warm, moist areas.

A fungal infection can be diagnosed based on the physical examination of the location and the eruptions on the skin. Alternatively, a doctor can also take scrapings from the skin and analyse it under the microscope for confirmation. Patient history can also help determine the source of fungal infection.

The treatment for fungal infections includes applying antifungal ointments and creams on the affected area. In some severe cases that do not respond to ointments, oral antifungal medicines are also given.