Dermatomycosis

/ˌdɜːmætəmaɪˈkoʊsɪs/ noun

Definition

A fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatomycetes, including conditions like ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch.

Etymology

From 'dermatomycete' and '-osis' (condition or disease). This medical term synthesizes Greek and Latin roots to name the disease state caused by skin-dwelling fungi.

Kelly Says

Interestingly, 'ringworm' isn't actually a worm at all—it's a dermatomycosis that creates a ring-shaped rash, and it's been infecting humans for literally thousands of years; ancient Egypt has documented evidence of ringworm in mummies.

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