SKINIPEDIA - Skin Diseases & Conditions: Tinea Capitis

Skin Diseases and Conditions: Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)

Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) is a common mild infection of the scalp and hair that appears as scaly spots and patches of broken hair on the head. Caused by a fungus, it is most commonly seen in children.

Scalp ringworm may be passed among humans by direct contact with infected people or with contaminated objects (such as combs, pillows, and sofas). Less commonly, the fungus may be spread from infected animals (especially cats or dogs) or from the soil. Though several different types of fungus may cause scalp ringworm, they are generally known as dermatophytes.

Scalp ringworm may occur in people of all ages, of all races, and of both sexes.

However, scalp ringworm is most frequently seen in children, especially those between 3 and 7 years old. In the United States, African American children are more likely to have scalp ringworm than others. Also, it is slightly more common in boys than in girls.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common locations for scalp ringworm include:

• Scalp
• Eyebrow (rare)
• Eyelashes (very rare)

Scalp ringworm appears as one or more round to oval areas covered with gray sheets of skin (scale) and is often accompanied by hair loss. The patches may be red and inflamed, and small pus-filled bumps (pustules) may appear. Also, tiny black dots may appear on the surface of the scalp, consisting of broken hairs.

Certain areas (lymph nodes) at the back of the scalp, behind the ears, or along the sides of the neck may be swollen.

One complication of scalp ringworm is a kerion, which is a large, oozing, pus-filled lump. If not treated aggressively, a kerion can lead to scarring and permanent hair loss.

Scalp ringworm is usually itchy.

 

Self-Care Guidelines

There are no effective self-care measures to treat scalp ringworm. To prevent scalp ringworm:

• Have your child avoid close contact with infected people and pets.
• Teach your children about the dangers of sharing combs, brushes, hats, and hair accessories with friends.

When to Seek Medical Care

See your child's doctor or a dermatologist if he or she has hair loss or itchy, scaly spots on the scalp.

If a close contact of your child (sibling or classmate) is diagnosed with scalp ringworm, make sure you examine your child's scalp by looking for scaly spots. If you are suspicious about an area, take the child to see a doctor for an examination.

If your child is diagnosed with scalp ringworm, have any household pets evaluated by a veterinarian to make sure that they do not also have a dermatophyte infection. If the veterinarian discovers an infection, be sure to have the animal treated.

Skin Diseases and Conditions

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