Is tinea capitis contagious?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on January 17, 2025
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Tinea capitis is contagious and has a relatively strong infectivity. It is especially prone to infect infants, children, and people with compromised immune functions due to underlying diseases. It can be spread through contact, including both direct and indirect contacts. For instance, sharing towels or other personal hygiene items can lead to infection, and contact with animals such as cats or dogs that have dermatophytosis can also transmit the disease.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How can tinea capitis be treated to eradicate it completely?

To achieve a radical cure for tinea capitis, it is first necessary to consider the extent of the condition. If the affected area is not very large, then topical medications may suffice. Common choices for antifungal topical medications include Terbinafine Hydrochloride Cream, Luliconazole Cream, Oxiconazole Nitrate Cream, or Ketoconazole Cream. If the tinea capitis is progressing and there is significant damage to the hair in the affected area, oral medication may be required for treatment. However, liver and kidney function tests should be conducted prior to this. If liver and kidney functions are normal, options include oral Itraconazole Dispersible Tablets, Terbinafine Hydrochloride Tablets, or Fluconazole Capsules. If the local hair condition is severe, it may be necessary to timely shave the head while ensuring cleanliness and hygiene of the scalp during treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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There are several types of tinea capitis.

According to the pathogens and symptoms, tinea capitis is divided into four types. The first type is yellow tinea, where yellow crusts appear on the scalp. Without treatment, it can lead to atrophic scars and permanent hair loss. The second type is white tinea; the third type is black tinea; the fourth type is purulent tinea, which shows symptoms similar to folliculitis. Therefore, no matter which type of tinea capitis it is, timely antifungal treatment is essential.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can tinea capitis be transmitted through hands?

Tinea capitis, the disease in question, is transmissible through hands. It is a superficial fungal infection primarily affecting the scalp and hair, mainly caused by pathogens such as Microsporum ferrugineum and Trichophyton schoenleinii. Transmission can occur through contact with objects like hats, pillowcases, and towels that have been used by others. Additionally, if one has tinea manuum (fungal infection of the hand), it can also lead to the spread of tinea capitis.

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Early symptoms of baby's scalp ringworm

Baby tinea capitis is a disease caused by fungal infection. The initial signs are an increase in dandruff and hair that breaks easily. Generally, there are different types based on these symptoms. However, with the gradual improvement of sanitary conditions, the incidence of tinea capitis is now very low and not commonly seen in clinical settings. If tinea capitis occurs, treatment should follow the principles of shaving the head, washing the hair, applying medication, disinfecting, and taking medication. Since fungi thrive in poor sanitary conditions, it is necessary to shave the child's hair and clean and disinfect the scalp, while also taking some antifungal medications. With these measures, the treatment of tinea capitis can achieve good results.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) and tinea versicolor serious?

Tinea capitis comes in many forms, among which white piedra is a type. Regardless of the type, all are caused by fungal infections. The main manifestation of white piedra is a white appearance accompanied by peeling, itching, and in severe cases, hair loss. It is treatable with a complete cure possible, but it is crucial to undergo proper treatment. Antifungal medications, such as clotrimazole cream or bifonazole cream, can be used for application.