Ringworm [Scalp]

Causes and risk factors

Ringworm of scalp is caused by fungi dermatophyte. They grow in favourable conditions like skin that remains wet for long time. Hair not washed properly, use of hat or comb of diseased person will lead to the condition. Human to human transmission of the disease is possible. Risk factors are age – common in toddlers or school going children, outbreak of infection in school, exposure to pets.

Clinical presentation

Patient presents with black dotted patches with hair loss. There is excessive dandruff on various places on scalp. There is inflammation and itching of scalp. Scaling of dry or greasy laminated mass, pustules i.e. small elevation of skin containing purulent material is observed. The pustules can be painful. In severe cases, infection leads to a large swelling in a section of scalp. It is known as ‘kerion.’ It is tender and oozing. There may be swelling of cervical lympnodes, associated with fever. It may lead to permanent hair loss and scarring of scalp. Along with this condition, associated conditions may be present such as tinea corporis [ringworm of body], tinea cruris [ringworm of groin], tinea pedis [ringworm of feet or athlete’s feet] etc.

Investigation

Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Wood’s lamp examination is advised [skin become green or fluorescent in colour, if affected]. Trichoscopy is recommended. Scalp biopsy confirms the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment involves local application of antifungal cream or ointment. Use of medicated shampoo like Antifungal shampoo for hair wash. Medicines involve oral antifungal drugs. Treatment of infection in other body parts is also essential. Doctor will advise to keep the area clean, shampooing regularly. Washing towels used by infected person in warm soapy water.  Other family members and pets should be examined and treated.

Other Modes of treatment

The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating ringworm of scalp.

Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating ringworm of scalp.