What Is Tinea Capitis And How Can It Be Treated?
Tinea capitis is a contagious fungal infection of the scalp that causes scaling, itching, and patchy hair loss.
It mainly affects children but can also occur in adults. With early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal treatment, the infection is usually curable and hair often regrows fully.
What Is Tinea Capitis?
Tinea capitis, commonly called scalp ringworm, is a dermatophyte fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair shafts. Despite its name, it is not caused by worms.
The fungi responsible feed on keratin in hair and skin. Without treatment, the infection can spread, worsen inflammation, and increase the risk of scarring-related hair loss.
What Causes Tinea Capitis?
Tinea capitis is caused by dermatophyte fungi, most commonly from the Trichophyton and Microsporum groups. These organisms spread easily in close-contact environments.
Common transmission routes include:
Direct contact with an infected person or animal
Sharing personal items such as combs, hats, towels, or pillows
Contact with contaminated surfaces
Children are more susceptible due to frequent physical contact and developing immune defenses.
Common Symptoms Of Tinea Capitis
Symptoms vary depending on the fungal strain and immune response. Typical signs include:
Scaly, itchy patches on the scalp
Broken hairs leading to patchy hair loss
Black dots where hairs have broken at scalp level
Redness, swelling, or crusting
In more severe cases, a painful inflammatory reaction known as a kerion may develop. This can ooze pus and, if untreated, may lead to permanent scarring.
How Tinea Capitis Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis is usually made by a dermatologist through clinical examination. To confirm the infection and identify the fungus, additional tests may be used.
These include microscopic analysis of hair or skin samples, fungal cultures, or examination under a Wood’s lamp, which can reveal fluorescence in certain fungal species.
Treatment Options For Tinea Capitis
Because the fungus infects hair follicles beneath the skin, topical treatments alone are not sufficient. Oral antifungal medication is required.
Common treatment options include:
Griseofulvin, typically used for six to eight weeks
Terbinafine, often effective with a shorter treatment course
Itraconazole or fluconazole in resistant cases
Medicated shampoos containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide are often used alongside oral medication to reduce surface fungal load and limit spread.
Can Hair Grow Back After Tinea Capitis?
In most cases, yes. Hair usually regrows once the infection is fully treated and inflammation resolves.
Permanent hair loss is uncommon but may occur if severe inflammation or scarring develops, particularly with untreated kerion formation.
How To Prevent Tinea Capitis
Preventive measures are especially important in households and schools. Key steps include:
Avoid sharing hair tools, hats, or bedding
Wash clothing and linens regularly
Check pets for signs of fungal infection
Encourage consistent hygiene practices in children
Early treatment of infected individuals helps reduce transmission.
When To See A Doctor
Medical evaluation is recommended if scalp itching, scaling, or patchy hair loss appears, especially in children. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of complications and spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes tinea capitis?
It is caused by dermatophyte fungi that infect the scalp and hair shafts.
Can adults get tinea capitis?
Yes. While more common in children, adults can also develop the infection, particularly if immunity is reduced.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment usually lasts between four and eight weeks, depending on the medication used.
Is tinea capitis contagious?
Yes. It spreads through direct contact or shared personal items.
Does hair grow back after treatment?
In most cases, hair regrows completely unless scarring has occurred.
