Tinea Capitis Clinical Symptoms

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on January 01, 2025
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Tinea capitis varies in clinical symptoms depending on its classification. If it is yellow tinea, it presents as yellow crusts on the scalp, with ulcers or erosion visible beneath the crusts. If it is white tinea, white scaly patches can be seen, generally with clear boundaries that may merge. If it is black dot tinea, hair breaking off shortly after emerging from the scalp appears as small black dots. If it is pustular tinea, the scalp shows redness and swelling with pus formation.

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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.

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Dermatology
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Is shaving the head a good treatment for tinea capitis?

Shaving the head completely is very beneficial for the treatment of scalp ringworm. After shaving, the scalp is exposed, making it more effective to apply ointment directly on it. Besides, shaving the head facilitates easier scalp cleaning, maintaining dryness and hygiene. For treating scalp ringworm, apart from shaving the head, it is also recommended to take oral antifungal medications and supplement the diet with vitamin-rich foods.

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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis contagious?

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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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.