It is an infection caused by a fungus found on the scalp of the head; sometimes the eyebrows and eyelashes may also be affected. It is a common condition in children, although it can occur in all ages.
It is spread by direct contact with ringworm-infected objects or materials, or with pets that have ringworm on their fur. Fungi grow in warm, moist areas, so it is easier to develop it if you have poor hair hygiene, a lesion or continuously moist skin (sweating).
Symptoms are bald or hairless areas, whiteheads, red or inflamed areas that flake, ulcers and itching. It may cause febrile fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and physical examination. It may be necessary to analyze a sample by scratching the affected area, a skin culture or a biopsy if deemed necessary.
It is treated with an oral antifungal drug plus the use of a special shampoo and good scalp hygiene. Carefully clean used combs and towels.
If you have symptoms of ringworm, see a specialist to start treatment as soon as possible.
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- A. B. Crocker, R. Quiñones, J. Mayorga, A. García. Dermatoscopia de tiña de la cabeza. Dermatol Rev Mex 2012;56(3):177-179.
- J. E. Edwards. Infecciones micóticas. Diagnóstico y tratamiento de las micosis. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Decimonovena edición. 1329-1332.
- UpToDate [Internet]. Waltham. 2017. Tinea capitis; [citado el 27 de junio de 2017]. Disponible en: http://www.uptodate.com/contents/tinea-capitis?source=search_result&search=ti%C3%B1a+de+la+cabeza&selectedTitle=1~34
