In a child with hair loss and scale on the scalp, fungal infection may be the cause. In tinea capitis (fungal infection of the scalp), there can be thick scaling. In tinea capitis, there can be many areas of hair loss, as displayed in this image. In a fungal infection of the scalp, there can be scaling without hair loss, as displayed in this image. Tinea capitis (a fungal scalp infection) typically has round areas of hair loss with scaling and redness of the scalp. Areas of scaling, redness, and possible hair loss are typical of tinea capitis. Multiple areas of hair loss and scaly patches of skin on the scalp is known as tinea capitis. Tinea capitis (ringworm) can cause thick, white, scaly areas within the scalp. In addition to a thick scale in this patient, there is usually temporary hair loss due to tinea capitis (ringworm).
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Ringworm, Scalp (Tinea Capitis)  A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Picture of Ringworm, Scalp (Tinea Capitis): In a child with hair loss and scale on the scalp, fungal infection may be the cause. Divider line
In a child with hair loss and scale on the scalp, fungal infection may be the cause.
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Self-Care Guidelines
There are no effective self-care measures to treat scalp ringworm.

To prevent scalp ringworm:
  • Have your child avoid close contact with infected people and pets.
  • Teach your children about the dangers of sharing combs, brushes, hats, and hair accessories with friends.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your child's doctor or a dermatologist if he or she has hair loss or itchy, scaly spots on the scalp.

If a close contact of your child (sibling or classmate) is diagnosed with scalp ringworm, make sure you examine your child's scalp by looking for scaly spots. If you are suspicious about an area, take the child to see a doctor for an examination.

If your child is diagnosed with scalp ringworm, have any household pets evaluated by a veterinarian to make sure that they do not also have a dermatophyte infection. If the veterinarian discovers an infection, be sure to have the animal treated.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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