Tinea Capitis(Ringworm of the Scalp; Fungal Infection of the Scalp)Pronounced: tin-EE-ah CAP-i-tis
by
Diane W. Shannon, MD, MPH DefinitionTinea capitis is a skin infection that affects the scalp.
CausesTinea capitis is caused by a type of fungus called a dermatophyte. The fungi thrive in warm, humid environments. Risk FactorsTinea capitis usually affects children under the age of 10 years, and those of African descent. Other factors that may increase your child's chances of tinea capitis:
SymptomsTinea capitis may cause:
If left untreated, tinea capitis may cause permanent hair loss and scarring. DiagnosisYour doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your child may need to be referred to a dermatologist, a specialist who focuses on skin issues. The diagnosis is often made with close inspection of the scalp. If the diagnosis is uncertain, the doctor may scrape your child’s scalp or clip a few hairs for testing. Tests on the sample may include:
TreatmentThe main treatment for tinea capitis is prescription antifungal medications. The condition can be difficult to treat. In some cases, tinea capitis can return after treatment. For some children, the condition goes away during puberty. Using an antifungal shampoo may help to reduce the risk of spreading the condition to others. PreventionTo help reduce your child’s chances of tinea capitis:
RESOURCES:American Academy of Dermatology https://www.aad.org Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dermatology Association https://dermatology.ca Dermatologists http://dermatologists.ca References:Ely JW, Rosenfeld S Stone MS. Diagnosis and management of tinea infections. Am Fam Physician. 2014;90(10):702-711.
Tinea capitis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T116543/Tinea-capitis
. Updated August 26, 2016. Accessed December 5, 2017.
Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
David L. Horn, MD, FACP Last Updated: 12/20/2014 |
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