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 Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can people with tinea capitis eat lamb?

Patients with tinea capitis should not eat mutton. Mutton is considered a dry and hot food, and consuming it can worsen the symptoms of tinea capitis, especially burning and itching. In addition to mutton, there are many other foods that patients with tinea capitis should avoid. For example, fried foods, greasy foods, and spicy foods should be avoided or consumed less. Furthermore, seafood and foods that are rich and potent should also be avoided.

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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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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.