Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp.
Alternative NamesFungal infection - scalp; Infection - fungal - scalp; Tinea of the scalp; Ringworm - scalp
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsTinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp) is caused by by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. It usually affects children and disappears at puberty. However, it can occur at any age.
The fungi that cause tinea infections thrive in warm, moist areas. You have an increased risk for tinea infection if you have:
Tinea infections are contagious. You can catch tinea capitis if you come into direct contact with someone who has the condition, or if you touch contaminated items such as combs, hats, or clothing. The infection can also be spread by pets, particularly cats.
SymptomsSymptoms include:
The appearance of the scalp will make the health care provider suspect tinea capitis.
Tests may include:
Anti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection. Griseofulvin, terbinafine, and itraconazole are often used to treat this condition.
Keep the area clean. A medicated shampoo, such as one containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, may reduce the spread of infection. Other family members and pets should be examined and treated, if necessary.
Expectations (prognosis)Tinea capitis may be extremely persistent, and it may return after treatment. In many cases it gets better on its own when the person reaches puberty.
ComplicationsCall for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of tinea capitis. Home care remedies do not effectively treat tinea capitis.
PreventionGood general hygiene is important to prevent and treat tinea infections. Shampoo the scalp regularly, especially after haircuts.
Avoid contact with infected pets or people. Do not exchange headgear, combs, and similar items unless they are first thoroughly cleaned and dried.
ReferencesAndrews MD, Burns M. Common tinea infections in children. Am Fam Physician. 2008;77:1415-1420.
Selenium sulfide is used against tinea capitis.
medicine
Tinea capitis
Tinea corporis: 4 - 10 days. Ringworm of The Body Tinea capitis: 10 - 14 days. Scalp Ringworm
TRICHOMYCOSIS is a general term. The most common cause is tinea capitis.
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp and hair follicles caused by dermatophytes. It is commonly known as ringworm and can cause symptoms like itching, redness, and hair loss in affected areas. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.
There are several types of ringworm, including tinea corporis (on the body), tinea capitis (on the scalp), tinea pedis (on the feet), and tinea cruris (on the groin). They can be distinguished by their location on the body, appearance of the rash, and symptoms such as itching and redness. Consulting a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment is recommended.
The symptoms of tinea capitis may last for up to 8 weeks but is common to reoccur after medication is stopped. You know it's healing when the inflammation and itching subsides.
Some diseases that are thought to be cased by Rhodospirillum rubrum are: Tinea (ringworm), Onychomycosis (nail fungus), Tinea Pedis (Athlete's foot), Tinea Capitis (ringworm of the scalp), Foot Dermatoses (unspecified diseases of the foot), Dermatomycoses (superficial infections of the skin), and Hand Dermatoses. For more information visit the Related Link.
I assume you son was treated with griseofulvin for the tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)? If so, sure, he may have a haircut.
Fungal diseases are caused by various types of fungi that can infect plants, animals, and humans. These diseases can range from mild skin infections to more serious conditions that affect internal organs. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.
The medical term for ringworm is "tinea." It was once thought to be caused by a worm, but it is not -- it's a fungus. Doctors add another word to indicate where the fungus is located. Tinea capitis refers to scalp ringworm, tinea corporis to fungus of the body, tinea pedis to fungus of the feet, etc. For more information visit the links provided.