Health Encyclopedia

Tinea capitis

Definition

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp.

Alternative Names

Fungal infection - scalp; Infection - fungal - scalp; Tinea of the scalp; Ringworm - scalp

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Tinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp) is caused by by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. It usually affects children and disappears at puberty. However, it can occur at any age.

The fungi that cause tinea infections thrive in warm, moist areas. You have an increased risk for tinea infection if you have:

Minor skin or scalp injuries
Poor hygiene
Wet skin for a long time (such as from sweating)

Tinea infections are contagious. You can catch tinea capitis if you come into direct contact with someone who has the condition, or if you touch contaminated items such as combs, hats, or clothing. The infection can also be spread by pets, particularly cats.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

Areas that appear bald, due to hair that has broken off
Itching of the scalp
Pus-filled sores (lesions) on the scalp (kerions)
Round, scaly lesions on the scalp that may be red or swollen (inflamed)
Small black dots on the scalp

Signs and tests

The appearance of the scalp will make the health care provider suspect tinea capitis.

Tests may include:

Skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination or culture
Wood's lamp test to confirm a fungal scalp infection

Treatment

Anti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection. Griseofulvin, terbinafine, and itraconazole are often used to treat this condition.

Keep the area clean. A medicated shampoo, such as one containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, may reduce the spread of infection. Other family members and pets should be examined and treated, if necessary.

Expectations (prognosis)

Tinea capitis may be extremely persistent, and it may return after treatment. In many cases it gets better on its own when the person reaches puberty.

Complications

Hair loss
Permanent scars
Pus-filled sores (kerions)

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of tinea capitis. Home care remedies do not effectively treat tinea capitis.

Prevention

Good general hygiene is important to prevent and treat tinea infections. Shampoo the scalp regularly, especially after haircuts.

Avoid contact with infected pets or people. Do not exchange headgear, combs, and similar items unless they are first thoroughly cleaned and dried.

References

Andrews MD, Burns M. Common tinea infections in children. Am Fam Physician. 2008;77:1415-1420.

Review Date:10/3/2008
Reviewed By:Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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