Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis)

Overview

Sometimes a swollen, tender, pus-filled patch (kerion) forms.

Family members may need antifungal shampoo.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Scaly patch with hair loss
• Scaly, itchy bald patch on a child's scalp

Less common

• Itchy scalp
• Black dots of broken hair

Look up a symptom: Flaky or itchy scalp (dandruff) · Hair loss · Ring-shaped rash · Scaly, itchy bald patch on a child's scalp · Swollen glands

When to get medical care

Causes

Fungus.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: touch.
• Don't share towels, hats, combs, or bedding while it's being treated.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children
• Pets

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Scalp scraping or hair sample:

Treatment

Treat fully.

Self-care

• Take pills for the full course
• Use antifungal shampoo to lower spread
• Don't share combs or hats
• Check pets for bald patches

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Don't share hair items

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your child's pediatrician.
• They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• You can go to school or work once treatment starts. Keep the area covered and don't share towels.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
• Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
• Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Curable; hair regrows.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis)