what is  tinea
Tinea is a fungus, a type of microorganism, that can cause a tinea infection. Tinea is a common cause of fungal infections. Tinea causes athlete's foot, jock itch and ringworm. Tinea is spread from person to person by direct contact, commonly in such places as contaminated public showers, locker rooms, work-out mats, and gym equipment. It can also be spread from cats, dogs and domesticated animals to humans.