spores.]

#Describe the symptoms of ringworm of the bearded region.#

Ringworm of the bearded region (_tinea trichophytina barbae_, _tinea
sycosis_, _parasitic sycosis_, _barber's itch_) begins usually in the
same manner as ringworm on other parts, as one or more rounded, slightly
scaly, hyperaemic patches. In rare instances the disease may persist as
such, with very little tendency to involve the hairs and follicles; but,
as a rule, the hairy structures are soon invaded, many of the hairs
breaking off, and many falling out. From involvement of the follicles,
more or less subcutaneous swelling ensues, the parts assuming a
distinctly _lumpy and nodular_ condition. The skin is usually
considerably reddened, often having a glossy appearance, and studded
with few or numerous pustules. The nodules tend, ordinarily, to break
down and discharge, at one or more of the follicular openings, a glairy,
glutinous, purulent material, which may dry to thick, adherent crusts.

[Illustration: Fig. 71.
Ringworm Fungus (Microsporon) x 500. (_After Duhring._) Short,
broken-off hair of scalp invaded with masses of free spores.]

The disease may be limited to one patch, or a large area, even to the
extent of the whole bearded region, becomes involved. The upper lip is
rarely invaded. Ringworm of the bearded region is due to the trichophyton.

[Illustration: Fig. 72.
Ringworm Fungus (Trichophyton) x 300. (_After Duhring._) Short, stout
hair of beard, with the root-sheath attached, showing free spores and
chains of spores.]

#To what is ringworm due?#

To the presence and growth in the cutaneous structures of a vegetable
parasite. Although the disease is contagious, individuals differ
considerably as to susceptibility. It is much more common in children
than in those past the age of puberty, ringworm of the scalp being
limited to the former (rare exceptions), and tinea sycosis being a
disease of the male adult.

Until recently the ringworm was thought to be due to but one fungus--the
trichophyton; it is now known that there are several forms of fungi, the
main forms being the small-spored (microsporon Audouini) and the
large-spored (trichophyton). Of this latter there are two main
subvarieties--endothrix and ectothrix. The small-spored fungus is found
as the cause in the majority of scalp cases; the endothrix also commonly
invades the scalp integument. The ectothrix variety is usually derived
directly or indirectly fro