BARBER'S ITCH, known also as ringworm of the beard, is a communicable disease of the skin of the bearded region. The causes are molds (Trichophyton cerebriforme and rosaceum) which are usually transferred from person to person in the barber shop. The disease is characterized by nodules of varying sizes which occur on the jaw, chin and neck and which represent foci of inflammation in and about the hair follicles. The hair over them is stubby, and thin pus exudes from the follicles. In spite of the name, there is no itching. The skin is often reddened and sore, especially over the nodules. The diagnosis is confirmed by finding the fungus microscopically in the hairs. The disease is chronic and if it ends spontaneously there is considerable loss of hair. If treated it is curable and leaves no traces. Treatment consists in depilation, antiseptic ointments and X-ray. (See RINGWORM.)