Tinea Capitis - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Tinea Capitis Alternative names is Fungal infection and Ringworm scalp. Tinea capitis is an infection of the scalp by mold-like fungi also called is dermatophytes. TA is considered to be a form of superficial mycosis. Several synonyms are used, including ringworm of the scalp and tinea tonsurans. In the United States and other regions of the world, the incidence of tinea capitis is increasing. Tinea capitis is the most common pediatric dermatophyte infection worldwide. The age predilection is believed to result from the presence of Pityrosporum orbiculare (Pityrosporum ovale), which is part of normal flora, and from the fungistatic properties of fatty acids of short and medium chains in postpubertal sebum. Fungi that cause tinea capitis thrive in warm, humid environments.

Tinea capitis is most common between preschool-age and adolescence. Tinea infections are contagious. If you come into direct contact with someone who has the condition, or if you touch contaminated items such as combs, hats, clothing, or similar surfaces. The infection can also be spread by pets, particularly cats. Tinea capitis occurs primarily in children and occasionally in other age groups. It is seen most commonly in children younger than 10 years. Peak age range is in patients aged 3-7 years.

Tinea capitis is widespread in some urban areas in North America and South America. It is common in parts of Africa and India. In Southeast Asia, the rate of infection has been reported to have decreased dramatically from 14% (average of male and female children) to 1.2% in the last 50 years because of improved general sanitary conditions and personal hygiene. In northern Europe, the disease is sporadic.

Causes of Tinea Capitis

Common causes of Tinea Capitis

• Dermatophytes.
• M audouinii.
• T tonsurans.
• Anthropophilic and zoophilic organisms.
• Ectothrix infection.
• T schoenleinii.
• M. gypseum.
• M. fulvum.

Symptoms of Tinea Capitis

Common Symptoms of Tinea Capitis

• Scaly lesions
• Itching.
• Red or swollen.

Treatment of Tinea Capitis

Common Treatment of Tinea Capitis

• Tinea capitis is usually treated with an antifungal, such as griseofulvin, which is taken by mouth for 8 weeks.
• Use of the oral medication and shampoo for the entire 8 weeks. Treatment failure is common when medications are not taken everyday for the full 8 weeks .
• Griseofulvin provided the first effective oral therapy for tinea capitis.
• Newer antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, terbinafine, and fluconazole, have been reported as effective alternative therapeutic agents for tinea capitis.
• Selenium sulfide shampoo may reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
• Avoid contact with infected pets or individuals.
• Headgear, combs, and similar items should not be exchanged unless.
• Take your pets to the veterinarian for treatment if they develop skin rashes.

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