Scalp fungal infections, tinea capitis and ringworm

Medical terms

Tinea capitis

Common terms

Scalp ringworm

Overview

The disease is a superficial fungal infection of the scalp, uncommon in adults and predominantly seen in young children, more commonly boys. The disease is infectious. It can be difficult to distinguish from other skin conditions that cause scaling and so diagnosis by a Dermatologist is necessary.

Symptoms and signs

Single or multiple patches of hair loss, sometimes with a black dot pattern that may be accompanied by inflammation, scaling and itching. Pustules or boggy inflamed lesions may also occur.

Treatment

Treatment can include oral medication and topical medication.