Non-Itchy Patches Like Ringworm: Similar Conditions

Key takeaways:

• There are many causes of non-itchy circular rashes that are not related to ringworm.
• Treatment depends on the cause of the rash.
• You should call your doctor if your rash lasts longer than seven days or if you have other symptoms.

It is natural to wonder whether you have ringworm after noticing a circular red rash on your body. However, there are many causes of non-itchy circular rashes. Many of them are temporary conditions, not serious or life-threatening, and can be resolved with minimal treatment. You may not end up needing treatment.

Seeing a doctor or dermatologist or other type of doctor is the best way to find out what’s causing your ringworm-like rash. However, before your appointment, it may be helpful to know about some of the common causes. You can read about some of these causes below and find out how you may be treated for your rash.

Common causes of non-itchy patches that look like ringworm

While this list of causes is incomplete, it should be a helpful guide as you work through your symptoms with your doctor.

Erythema annulare

Erythema annulare is a skin condition that develops in response to various conditions. Causes range from viral and bacterial infection to thyroid disease or even pregnancy.

This leads to a circular rash that can be itchy or non-itchy. Treatment is usually directed at the underlying cause. Your doctor may prescribe topical (applied to the skin) or oral steroids.

Granuloma annulare

Granuloma annulare causes small red bumps to form a circle on the skin. This rash is often associated with thyroid disease, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

The rash can last for years, and treatment depends on the severity of the rash. Sometimes, the rash can disappear on its own without any treatment. Doctors aren’t always able to determine the cause of this rash in patients.

Erythema migrans

Erythema migrans (EM) is a circular rash that appears at the site of a tick bite. It closely resembles a target or “bullseye” and is an early sign of Lyme disease.

This rash is usually not painful or itchy. If you have been outdoors in areas with ticks or have noticed a tick on your skin, talk to your doctor. Lyme disease usually responds well to antibiotics, but it can cause serious complications if left untreated.

Discoid lupus erythematosus

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a form of lupus that affects the skin. Lupus is an inflammatory condition that affects many organs and is considered an autoimmune disorder. This means that the body’s own defenses are responsible for the symptoms.

DLE causes circular patches of red skin to appear all over the body. These are usually painless and do not itch. DLE can increase your risk of developing skin cancer, so it’s important to regularly see your doctor. Treatment, which can be topical or oral, depends on the severity of your symptoms. If you have been diagnosed with lupus and notice a new rash, talk to your doctor.

Discoid erythrasma

Discoid erythrasma is a skin condition that causes round plaques (raised, flat-topped bumps) to appear on the skin.

A bacterial infection causes it. Discoid erythrasma is more common in women with dark skin who live in warm areas. Treatment is usually topical and directed at eliminating the bacteria responsible for the infection. If the rash is severe, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics.

Read our full guide on rashes and different types of rashes for more.

Common treatment options for non-itchy patches that look like ringworm

The treatment options for non-itchy round rashes that look like ringworm are wide-ranging. It is important to talk with your doctor before starting any over-the-counter therapy, as certain creams can be harmful rather than helpful.

Topical steroids

Topical steroids are steroids applied to the skin in the form of a cream or lotion. They are often useful in the treatment of rashes that are caused by inflammation. Steroids work by decreasing inflammation in the skin.

Conditions that cause increased inflammation, such as lupus, are often treated with steroids. In severe cases, your doctor may add oral steroids (steroids taken by mouth). It is important to follow the exact prescription your doctor gives you. If steroids are taken for too long, there can be harmful side effects. Call your doctor if you have any concerns.

Topical antibiotics

Topical antibiotics are applied to the skin as a cream or a lotion. These are only useful in the treatment of rashes caused by bacterial infection.

It is important to take the antibiotic for the entire length prescribed. Even if your rash disappears, continue taking the antibiotic until the stop date.

Skin hygiene

Some non-itchy rashes that look like ringworm are either made worse by or caused by excessive moisture and/or skin folds touching each other (known as occlusion).

Your doctor may ask you to make an effort to minimize occlusion and skin moisture. Bathing with antibiotic soap is recommended for some patients, but this should only be done at a doctor’s direction.

Oral antibiotics

Oral antibiotics might be ordered when your physician suspects a significant infection, such as Lyme Disease. This is not common, however.

When you should see a doctor for a non-itchy rash that looks like ringworm

A circular rash can make patients wonder if they need medical treatment. It is important to seek medical attention when this symptom develops.

You should see a doctor if:

• You have a rash that lasts longer than a week.
• You have an itchy rash and are having a hard time not scratching it.
• Your rash is spreading or getting larger.
• You have other symptoms, such as headache, fatigue, or joint pain.

You should go to the emergency room if:

• Your rash has spread rapidly, increasing over several hours rather than days.
• You have a fever or chills.
• You are having trouble breathing.
• You have been bitten by or exposed to ticks in the last month.

Questions to ask your doctor about non-itchy patches that look like ringworm

• What is the cause of this rash?
• Are there any treatments for this rash?
• How long should I expect this rash to last?
• Is there any way I can prevent this rash from coming back?

Read our full guide on when to worry about a rash for more.

Frequently asked questions: rashes that look like ringworm but aren’t itchy

Rashes can be an uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking experience for patients. It is normal to have questions, so please call your doctor if you have any.

Could this type of rash be a sign of lupus?

There are numerous causes of circular rashes. While lupus is one such cause, there are other more common causes. Please see a doctor if you have a history of lupus or have other symptoms such as fatigue, headache, or joint pain.

What if you’re experiencing circular dry patches on the skin that aren’t itchy?

Not all rashes lead to itchiness. It’s important to consult with your physician. Please avoid scratching or picking at your rash, as this can damage the skin further. Do not apply creams or lotions to the rash without speaking to your doctor first.

Final thoughts

Circular rashes can be a worrisome symptom for patients. It is important to know that many causes of such rashes are not serious and will often resolve with simple treatment. However, if your rash has persisted for more than a week or if you have other symptoms, please speak with your doctor.

General Medicine follows a strict editorial process, including using real experts to write our articles, vetted primary sources, fact-checking, a secondary medical review, and updates as necessary. This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Dr. Lane Thaut, DO.

Sources

McDaniel, Brianna, and Christopher Cook. “Erythema Annulare Centrifugum.” Nih.gov, StatPearls Publishing, 27 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482494/

“Granuloma Annulare: Overview.” Www.aad.org, www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/granuloma-annulare-overview.

McDaniel, Brianna, et al. “Discoid Lupus Erythematosus.” PubMed, StatPearls Publishing, 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493145/.

Groves, John B., et al. “Erythrasma.” PubMed, StatPearls Publishing, 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513352/.

Engber, P B, and E H Mandel. “Generalized disciform erythrasma.” International journal of dermatology vol. 18,8 (1979): 633-5, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513352/.

“About Lyme Disease- Minnesota Dept. Of Health.” Www.health.state.mn.us, www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/lyme/basics.html.