Scalp Fungus (Or Tinea Capitis)

The dermatologist can distinguish between the two using Wood's light as the hair fluoresces when Microsporum, which multiplies outside the hairs, is involved, whereas it does not fluoresce with Trichophytum, where the spores grow inside the hairs.

In the link above you can clearly appreciate the patch of whitish fluorescing lesion on the left side in the otherwise blue light of Wood's light.

With staining of a few skin flakes the Microsporum fungus can be demonstrated in this infected skin patch. Here is another image of a tinea capitis lesion that has been neglegted for several months, perhaps years.

Treatment for children with Trichophyton involves a course of 4 weeks with oral suspension of griseofulvin with meals or milk until the scalp infection is entirely resolved. Parallel to this Loprox cream is applied to the scalp and selenium sulfide (brand name: Versel lotion) is used to wash the hair daily.

Disclaimer:

This outline is only a teaching aid to patients and should stimulate you to ask the right questions when seeing your doctor. However, the responsibility of treatment stays in the hands of your doctor and you.

References:

1.The Merck Manual, 7th edition, by M. H. Beers et al., Whitehouse Station, N.J., 1999. Chapter 265.

2.James Chin et al., Editors: Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, 17th edition, 2000, American Public Health Association

3.The Merck Manual, 7th edition, by M. H. Beers et al., Whitehouse Station, N.J., 1999. Chapter 112.

4. The Merck Manual, 7th edition, by M. H. Beers et al., Whitehouse Station, N.J., 1999. Chapter 115.

5. The Merck Manual, 7th edition, by M. H. Beers et al., Whitehouse Station, N.J., 1999. Chapter 113.

Last Modified: Jan. 22, 2008