From the Guidelines
Tinea corporis is typically pruritic, especially at night, due to increased body temperature and skin sensitivity during sleep. The condition, also known as ringworm of the body, can cause intense itching sensations that worsen at night, making it essential to manage symptoms effectively. According to a study on infectious diseases associated with organized sports, Tinea corporis infections have been reported more frequently among high school wrestlers and judo practitioners 1. While this study does not directly address the issue of nighttime itching, it highlights the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of Tinea corporis.
To manage nighttime itching, several strategies can be employed:
- Applying topical antifungal medications like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine to the affected area and surrounding skin twice daily for 2-4 weeks
- Taking an antihistamine like diphenhydramine before bed to reduce discomfort and prevent scratching
- Keeping the affected area clean and dry to prevent the fungus from thriving in warm, moist environments
- Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing to reduce irritation and allow the skin to breathe, particularly at night when sweating may occur
It is essential to note that oral antifungals like itraconazole, 100 mg, given orally once a day, have been shown to be effective in treating Tinea corporis, with a mycological cure rate of 87% when given for 15 days 1. However, the management of nighttime itching is crucial to prevent scratching and worsening of the infection. By combining these strategies, individuals with Tinea corporis can effectively manage their symptoms and reduce the discomfort associated with nighttime itching.
From the Research
Tinea Corporis Symptoms
- Tinea corporis typically presents as a well-demarcated, sharply circumscribed, oval or circular, mildly erythematous, scaly patch or plaque with a raised leading edge 2
- Mild pruritus is common in patients with tinea corporis 2
Pruritus in Tinea Corporis
- There is no specific information available on whether tinea corporis is typically pruritic at night 3, 4, 2, 5, 6
- However, pruritus is a common symptom of tinea corporis, and it can occur at any time of day 2
Treatment of Tinea Corporis
- The standard treatment of tinea corporis is with topical antifungals 2
- Systemic antifungal treatment is indicated if the lesion is multiple, extensive, deep, recurrent, chronic, or unresponsive to topical antifungal treatment, or if the patient is immunodeficient 2
- Fluconazole 150 mg once weekly for 2-4 weeks is an efficacious and safe regimen in the treatment of tinea corporis 5