Ringworm is not caused by worms. It is also known as tinea that is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi are microscopic organisms that can live off the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails, much like a mushroom can grow on the bark of a tree.
Ringworm is characterized by a red ring of small blisters or a red ring of scaly skin that grows outward as the infection spreads. Both children and adults can be affected by ringworm.