What causes tinea capitis?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.

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Dermatology
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Difference between Tinea Capitis and Psoriasis

Tinea capitis and psoriasis are quite different from each other, starting with their causes. The causes of psoriasis are not very clear and may be related to factors like immune infection and heredity, whereas the cause of tinea capitis is quite clear, as it is caused by fungal infection. Furthermore, their treatments differ. It is recommended to use antifungal medications to treat tinea capitis, while psoriasis is generally treated with immunosuppressants and corticosteroids. Finally, the symptoms of tinea capitis include scaly patches, crusting, and itching, whereas psoriasis typically presents with scaly erythema, pustules, and less itching.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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).

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.