What skin disorder is often referred to as "ringworm"?

The skin disorder commonly referred to as "ringworm" is characterized by its circular, ring-like appearance and is caused by a fungal infection. This condition, known scientifically as tinea corporis, manifests as red, scaly patches with clear centers that may be itchy and can occur anywhere on the body. The term "ringworm" is a bit misleading, as it is not caused by a worm but rather by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments.

Tinea versicolor, while also a fungal condition, produces discolored patches on the skin and does not typically exhibit the ring-like features associated with ringworm. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that leads to the rapid turnover of skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly plaques, which differ significantly in appearance and etiology from ringworm. Dermatitis encompasses various inflammatory skin conditions, which do not specifically relate to the fungal infection represented by tinea corporis. Therefore, understanding the specific characteristics and causes of these conditions highlights why tinea corporis is the correct response to the question.