tinea /tin″ē·ə/ [L, worm] , a group of fungal skin diseases caused by dermatophytes of several kinds. The condition is characterized by itching, scaling, and sometimes painful lesions. Tinea is spread by direct contact between humans and even domestic dogs or cats. Diagnosis is made by demonstrating fungus on smear or by culture. Also called ringworm. See also tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea pedis, tinea unguium.
