Tinea capitis

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Ringworm, tinea capitis - close-up

Ringworm of the scalp

Wood's lamp test - of the scalp

Fungal infection - scalp; Infection - fungal - scalp; Tinea of the scalp; Ringworm - scalp

Anti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection.

Keep the area clean. A medicated shampoo, such as one containing selenium sulfide, may reduce the spread of infection. Other family members and pets should be examined and treated, if necessary.

Tinea capitis may be extremely persistent, may resolve spontaneously at puberty, and may recur.

Complications include pus-filled sores (kerions), permanent scaring, and hair loss.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of tinea capitis. Home care remedies do not effectively treat tinea capitis.

Review Date: 10/16/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.