Tinea Capitis

Also known as ringworm of the scalp, tinea capatis is a superficial fungal infection of the scalp. It is caused by a microscopic group of parasitic fungal organisms known as dermatophytes (which means plants that live on the skin). Different areas of the body can be affected by fungal infections, including;

There are different types of ringworm including;

• Tinea corporis - Ringworm of the body in general.

• Tinea capitis - Ringworm of the scalp. This is most often seen in children.

• Tinea cruris (also known as Jock Itch) - Ringworm of the groin.

• Tinea barbae - Ringworm of the bearded area of the face & neck.

• Tinea faciei - Ringworm of the face (excluding the bearded areas).

• Tinea manus - Ringworm of the palms & fingers. 

• Tinea pedis  (also known as Athletes Foot) - Fungus of the foot.

• Tinea unguium (onychomycosis) - Fungus of the nails.

There are several species of fungi that can cause tinea capatis & this varies throughout the world. In Australia,  Microsporum Canis is the primary causative agent, in Europe it is Microsporum Canis or Trichophyton tonsurans.

Tinea capatis can affect people of any age, however it is most commonly seen in pre-pubescent children. It is highly contagious & can be transmitted from animals (especially household pets), humans & even objects (combs, towels etc).

Symptoms of tinea capatis:

Symptoms of tinea capatis can vary & may include;

• Areas of bald patches on the scalp.
• Bald patches are accompanied by thickened, scaly, reddened patches.
• Small black dots on the scalp, consisting of broken hairs.
• Some individuals develop an allergic reaction to the fungus, developing kerions (raised, spongy, swollen, pus filled lesions).
• Itching.

Some individuals may be carriers & experience no symptoms at all, however they will still be able to pass on the infection to others.

Treatment of tinea capatis:

Treatment choice for tinea capatis is oral anti-fungal medication Griseofulvin. Other medications used to treat tinea capatis include;

• Terbinafine
• Itraconazole
• Fluconazole
• Ketoconazole

Shampooing with an anti-fungal shampoo twice a week can improve success rates.

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.