Annular Tinea Corporis Patches

Description

Anterior thoracic skin of an adult male is presented with multiple annular erythematous plaques distributed across the upper chest and parasternal regions, with several lesions extending laterally toward the anterior axillary folds. Each patch has a raised, more intensely red peripheral rim and relative central clearing, creating the classic ring-shaped morphology associated with tinea corporis (ringworm) on the superficial epidermis. Lesions vary in diameter and sit superficially without ulceration, consistent with dermatophyte infection limited to the stratum corneum. Arms rest slightly abducted to keep the pectoral and sternal contours unobstructed. Clear borders matter. Annular tinea corporis is a daily diagnostic trap because it mimics nummular eczema, psoriasis, granuloma annulare, and pityriasis rosea, yet management diverges quickly once a dermatophytosis is confirmed. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation from scale at the active edge demonstrates segmented hyphae, and missing that step often leads to topical corticosteroid use with progression to tinea incognito, where the inflammatory rim blunts and the eruption spreads. The trunk distribution also raises practical questions about contagion and fomites, including shared towels, gym mats, and contact sports, and about common sources such as tinea pedis with autoinoculation. Dermatology and primary care courses use this kind of frontal trunk view to teach morphology terms (annular, scaly border, central clearing) and to anchor algorithms for rashes on the chest in adult men. Medical publishers can pair it with lab technique panels for KOH scraping, or with treatment schematics comparing topical allylamines (terbinafine) and azoles, plus counseling on hygiene and treatment of concomitant tinea pedis to reduce recurrence. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.