Tinea capitis


What causes tinea capitis?
The fundamental cause of tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp and hair. The fungus mainly consists of various microsporum species, with the rust-red microsporum being the most common. Tinea capitis can be contracted through direct or indirect contact and is common among children and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of tinea capitis include dandruff, scabs, itching, and others. It is essential to promptly visit a dermatologist for fungal testing and treatment.


How to remove tinea capitis
Tinea capitis is a common skin disease, often caused by a fungal infection of the scalp. To remove tinea capitis, it is suggested to pay attention to the following points: First, wash your hair frequently. You can use topical potassium permanganate solutions for scalp cleansing, removing necrotic tissue, fungi, and some crusts. Second, it is advised to pay attention to personal hygiene and avoid eating spicy foods. Furthermore, for mild cases of tinea capitis, it is advisable to use selenium sulfide cleansers for washing. Lastly, for more severe tinea capitis, it is necessary to use topical antifungal medications such as ketoconazole ointment, along with oral antifungal medications for treatment (the use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor).


What causes tinea capitis?
The causes of tinea capitis are related to factors such as not paying attention to the cleanliness and hygiene of the scalp, malnutrition, and contact with other patients afflicted by tinea capitis. However, the most fundamental cause is fungal infection of the scalp and hair. There are many types of tinea capitis, such as yellow tinea, white tinea, and dragon tinea. Common pathogenic fungi include Trichophyton schoenleinii and Microsporum ferrugineum. After contracting tinea capitis, it is essential to seek timely treatment because this disease is contagious and the treatment duration tends to be relatively long.


Early symptoms of tinea capitis
The early symptoms of tinea capitis are primarily characterized by itching. As the disease progresses, changes in dandruff, flaking, and then symptoms such as yellow crusts, exudation, or erosion may gradually appear. If scalp itching occurs in the early stages, it is crucial to pay close attention, promptly visit the dermatology department of a hospital, and undergo relevant examinations, such as fungal tests. If tinea capitis is diagnosed, timely antifungal treatment is essential.


What does tinea capitis look like?
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp or hair follicles caused by dermatophytes. There are several types of tinea capitis. If it is white piedra, it appears as scattered, spot-like scaly patches; if it presents as kerion, significant inflammation will occur with many small pustules forming on the scalp; if it is yellow piedra, scalp scales will appear. Regardless of the type of tinea capitis, it is crucial to treat it promptly to prevent spreading.


Symptoms of tinea capitis
The symptoms of tinea capitis vary according to the type. Tinea capitis is classified into types such as yellow tinea, white tinea, black tinea, and dragon tinea. Yellow tinea is characterized by the presence of yellow, scabby patches on the scalp with hair growing through the middle. Lifting these crusts reveals underlying erosion or ulcers. White tinea primarily presents as white, scaly patches, while black tinea appears similar to white tinea but features small black and white dots on the hair and scalp. Finally, dragon tinea is associated with swollen, boil-like elevations.


Does tinea capitis itch?
Tinea capitis is a common superficial fungal infection of the skin, divided into types such as yellow tinea and white tinea, which are contagious. Tinea capitis causes itchy symptoms, and in addition to itching, there may also be symptoms such as increased dandruff, and skin discoloration to white or yellow, often accompanied by scales. Once tinea capitis occurs, it is essential to timely treat it with antifungal medications and to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the scalp, developing good hygiene habits. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)


Is tinea capitis a skin disease?
Tinea capitis is a type of skin disease, a highly contagious disease caused by fungal infections. It troubles many patients not only because of its high contagiousness but also because it significantly affects the quality of life. The most susceptible group for tinea capitis is children. There are many triggering factors for the disease, such as lack of cleanliness usual, the use of shared towels in public places, etc. Additionally, having diseases like tinea pedis or tinea cruris could also lead to tinea capitis.


Difference between Tinea Capitis and Scalp Psoriasis
Tinea capitis and scalp psoriasis are quite different. Firstly, looking at the causes of the diseases, tinea capitis is caused by fungal infections. The cause of psoriasis is not very clear, but it is considered to be related to multiple factors such as genetics, immunity, and infections. Secondly, the symptoms of scalp psoriasis vary depending on the type and may include scaly erythema, pustules, and desquamation, whereas tinea capitis typically presents with symptoms such as hair breakage, itching, and scabbing.


How to treat seborrheic dermatitis with discharge?
Tinea capitis is a common skin disease related to fungal infection. If tinea capitis causes oozing, it may be due to a secondary bacterial infection or from scratching that causes the oozing. In such cases, it is crucial to treat promptly with anti-infection medications, typically anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, avoid scratching or washing with hot water. It is recommended to use mild medicinal solutions for application and shampooing. Also, avoid eating spicy and irritating foods, and avoid contact with cats and dogs.