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Tinea Capitis(Ringworm of the Scalp; Fungal Infection of the Scalp)How to Say It: tin-EE-ah CAP-i-tis
by
Amy Scholten, MPH DefinitionTinea capitis is a skin infection that affects the scalp. If not treated, it can lead to permanent hair loss and scarring.
CausesTinea capitis is caused by a fungus. The fungus invades hair shafts. It is spread by:
Risk FactorsTinea capitis is more common in children 3 to 7 years old. Other things that may raise the risk are:
SymptomsTinea capitis may cause:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. The person may be referred to a skin doctor. Diagnosis is often based on a scalp exam. If the diagnosis is uncertain, the doctor may scrape the scalp or clip a few hairs for testing. Tests on the sample may include:
TreatmentThe goal is to clear the infection. The main treatment for tinea capitis is antifungal medicine taken by mouth. Antifungal creams may also be added. Antifungal shampoos may help reduce the spread to others. The condition can be difficult to treat. PreventionTo reduce the risk of tinea capitis, do not share combs, brushes, or headgear. 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:Leung AKC, Hon KL, et al. Recent Pat Inflamm Allergy Drug Discov. 2020;(1):58-68. Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm). Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/fungal-skin-infections/tinea-capitis-scalp-ringworm. Accessed April 2, 2021.
Tinea capitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/tinea-capitis
Accessed April 2, 2021.
Last reviewed December 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
David L. Horn, MD, FACP Last Updated: 4/2/2021 | |