Definition

• A fungus infection of the scalp
• The medical name is Tinea capitis

Symptoms

• Round patches of hair loss that slowly increase in size.
• The scalp in the patches does not look normal. It has scaling, crusts and/or redness.
• The bald spots may have a black-dot appearance. These are hair shafts that are broken off at the surface. Note: the dots are blond in blond-haired children.
• It is often itchy.
• The main complication of untreated ringworm is a kerion. A kerion is tender swelling of the scalp that can drain pus. Kerions are an allergic reaction to the fungus, not a bacterial infection. They get better when you use the antifungal medicine.
• Peak age group is 2 to 10 years.

Cause

• Ringworm of the scalp is caused by a fungus infection. It is not caused by a worm.
• Over 90% of the time, it is spread from other children who are infected.
• Less than 10% are caused by pets that are infected. Examples are kittens, puppies and guinea pigs.
• The pet type cannot be spread from your child to other children.

Diagnosis

• Ringworm of the scalp often can be diagnosed by how it looks.
• Sometimes, some scales will need to be cultured for fungus.

Prevention of Spread to Others

• Ringworm can be spread to other people.
• Scales, broken hairs and any drainage is contagious.
• Do not share combs, brushes or hats with other people.
• Try to avoid scratching the patches of ringworm.
• Contacts: Check other family members for signs of ringworm.
• Pets with a skin rash or sores should be checked by a vet.