Illustration copyright 2000, 2005 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Ringworm of the scalp often appears as round or oval patches of baldness or scaly skin. Typically, the circular patches spread along their outer borders while clearing at the center, giving a ringed appearance and the name "ringworm." But this pattern is not always seen.

In the most severe cases, the infected area is inflamed, reddened, crusty, tender, and swollen, with small blisterlike bumps. Without treatment, permanent scarring and balding can occur.