What is the first-line treatment for ringworm infections?

Terbinafine is recognized as the first-line treatment for ringworm infections, which are clinically termed dermatophyte infections. This antifungal agent disrupts the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes, leading to increased permeability and ultimately cell death. Terbinafine is particularly effective for treating localized skin infections such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea corporis (ringworm of the body), and tinea cruris (jock itch).

While clotrimazole and miconazole are also effective antifungals used for treating superficial fungal infections, terbinafine typically provides a more rapid resolution of symptoms and a lower recurrence rate. Fluconazole, although effective against a range of fungal infections, is not typically first-line for dermatophyte infections due to its pharmacokinetic profile and mechanism of action, which is more suitable for systemic fungal infections rather than localized dermatophyte conditions. Thus, in the context of treating ringworm, terbinafine stands out as the preferred choice.