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. Tinea capitis (a fungal scalp infection) typically has round areas of hair loss with scaling and redness of the scalp. Multiple areas of hair loss and scaly patches of skin on the scalp is known as tinea capitis. 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)  Teen 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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Overview
Tinea capitis is the medical term for ringworm, a very common fungal infection, of the scalp. Despite the name, there are no worms involved in scalp ringworm, rather the rash forms a scaly, round patch that sometimes clears or improves in the middle, thus looking like a ring. Ringworm can occur on other parts of the body, but scalp ringworm is commonly seen in children. It is contagious and is acquired by contact with infected people, animals, or objects (such as towels, combs, and pillows). Scalp ringworm should be treated (by a prescription medicine your doctor can prescribe) because it is contagious and because, if left untreated, the affected area can develop hair loss and sometimes another, more serious, infection called a kerion.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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