Overview
Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It usually causes itchy, scaly, bald patches on the head. The condition is contagious and commonly affects toddlers and school-age children. Ringworm gets its name because of its circular appearance, but no worm is involved in the infection. Medication taken by mouth or medicated shampoos can help treat the infection and prevent its spread to others.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of ringworm scalp (tinea capitis) include:
- One or more round, scaly or inflamed patches on the head where the hair has broken off at or near the scalp.
- Patches that slowly get bigger and have small, black dots where the hair has broken off.
- Brittle or fragile hair that can be easily broken or pulled out. These symptoms may be accompanied by itchiness and discomfort on the scalp. If you suspect your child has ringworm scalp, it's important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment with prescription medication, as nonprescription creams, lotions, and powders won't effectively treat this type of ringworm.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing ringworm of the scalp include age, exposure to other children, and exposure to pets. Ringworm of the scalp is most common in toddlers and school-age children, and outbreaks often occur in schools and child care centers. Additionally, contact with infected pets, such as cats or dogs, can increase the risk of developing ringworm of the scalp.
Development
Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) develops as a result of a fungal infection. The fungus attacks the outer layer of skin on the scalp and hair follicles, causing hair breakage and inflammation. The infection typically appears as one or more round, scaly or inflamed patches on the head, which may spread and grow over time. Ringworm of the scalp can be caused by various fungi, including Trichophyton and Microsporum, and it can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items, such as hairbrushes or hats, with an infected person. The condition is more common in toddlers and school-age children, and it can lead to hair loss, brittle hair, and tender or painful areas on the scalp. Treatment usually involves prescription medication taken by mouth or applied topically to the scalp, depending on the severity of the infection.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if your child has suspected ringworm of the scalp, especially if they have any hair loss, scaling, itchiness on the scalp, or other unusual appearance of the scalp. It's essential to get an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment with prescription medication, as nonprescription creams, lotions, and powders will not effectively treat ringworm of the scalp.
Diagnosis
To diagnose ringworm of the scalp, a doctor will typically look at the affected skin and ask relevant questions. A sample of hair or skin may be taken to be tested in a lab, which can confirm the presence of a fungus.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of ringworm scalp (tinea capitis) include the development of kerion, which is a severe inflammation characterized by soft, raised swellings that drain pus and cause thick, yellow crusting on the scalp. Kerion can lead to scarring and permanent hair loss.
Prevention
Prevention measures for ringworm of the scalp include:
- Educate yourself and others: Raise awareness about the risk of ringworm from infected people or pets. Teach children about the signs of ringworm, how to avoid it, and good hygiene practices.
- Regular shampooing: Wash the scalp regularly, especially after haircuts. Some scalp conditioning products, such as coconut oil and pomades with selenium, might help prevent ringworm of the scalp.
- Keep skin clean and dry: Ensure children wash their hands frequently, particularly after interacting with pets. Keep shared spaces clean, such as in schools, childcare centers, gyms, and locker rooms.
- Avoid infected animals: If you have pets or animals that often carry ringworm, consult your veterinarian to check for infections.
- Don't share personal items: Teach children not to share clothing, towels, hairbrushes, sports gear, or other personal items with others. While these measures can help reduce the risk of ringworm scalp, it is difficult to completely prevent the infection, as the fungus is common and can be contagious even before symptoms appear. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with prescription medication are important to manage the condition effectively.
Home Remedies
Home remedies for ringworm of the scalp include:
- Keeping the affected area clean and dry to prevent further spread of the infection.
- Using an over-the-counter antifungal shampoo, such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, as directed on the packaging.
- Applying tea tree oil or coconut oil to the affected area, as these oils have antifungal properties. However, it's important to dilute them with a carrier oil and do a patch test first, as some people may be sensitive to these oils.
- Washing and drying hair with a medicated shampoo recommended by a doctor or pharmacist.
- Avoiding sharing personal items, such as towels, hats, and hairbrushes, to prevent the spread of infection.
- Wearing loose, breathable clothing and avoiding tight hats or headgear that may keep the scalp warm and moist, creating an ideal environment for the fungus to grow. Remember that home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing, but they may not completely cure the infection. It's important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and prescription-strength medication if needed.
Treatment
Treatment for ringworm of the scalp typically involves medication to kill the fungus. This can be taken by mouth or applied topically in the form of a medicated shampoo. Prescription medicine is often needed for this type of infection. Over-the-counter creams, lotions, or powders are not effective in treating scalp ringworm. The medication prescribed may vary based on the severity of the infection, the age of the patient, and any underlying medical conditions. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment for your child. In addition to medication, following good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of ringworm:
- Regularly washing the scalp with soap and water
- Keeping the scalp clean and dry
- Avoiding sharing personal items like towels, hairbrushes, or sports gear
- Washing hands regularly, especially after coming into contact with pets or infected individuals Remember to seek medical advice if your child experiences any hair loss, scalp irritation, or unusual scalp appearance. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing complications and promoting a speedy recovery.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for ringworm of the scalp, here are some steps you can take:
- Gather information: Note the date when you first noticed the symptoms and any changes in the appearance of the scalp. Also, consider if there have been any factors that might have contributed to the development of ringworm, such as recent contact with pets or farm animals, sharing personal items, or a history of ringworm within the family or school.
- Make a list of questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor during the appointment. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you get the information you need. Some questions to consider include the cause of the infection, the best course of treatment, and how to prevent the spread of the infection.
- Keep the affected area clean and dry: To help manage the infection, ensure that the affected scalp is kept clean and dry. Avoid sharing towels, hats, or other items that come into contact with the affected area.
- Use over-the-counter antifungal treatments: Apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream, or ointment as directed on the packaging. This may help to alleviate symptoms and speed up the healing process.
- Be prepared to discuss your family and social history: Be ready to provide your doctor with information about any close contacts or family members who may have ringworm, as well as any instances of ringworm reported at your child's school. Remember to be open and honest with your doctor about your concerns and any symptoms your child is experiencing. This will help them provide the most appropriate guidance and treatment options.