Symptoms of tinea capitis

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 25, 2024
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The symptoms of tinea capitis vary according to the type. Tinea capitis is classified into types such as yellow tinea, white tinea, black tinea, and dragon tinea. Yellow tinea is characterized by the presence of yellow, scabby patches on the scalp with hair growing through the middle. Lifting these crusts reveals underlying erosion or ulcers. White tinea primarily presents as white, scaly patches, while black tinea appears similar to white tinea but features small black and white dots on the hair and scalp. Finally, dragon tinea is associated with swollen, boil-like elevations.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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What is the difference between tinea capitis and seborrheic dermatitis?

Tinea capitis and seborrheic dermatitis have fundamentally different causes. Tinea capitis is a fungal infection, including conditions such as yellow tinea, white tinea, black dot tinea, and pustular tinea. It leads to the destruction of hair follicles, which can cause hair loss and even scarring. Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrheic eczema, arises from the excessive secretion of sebum. At this time, it may also be stimulated by the colonization of certain microorganisms, such as Malassezia, causing inflammation. It typically affects the scalp, face, chest, and back. The initial lesions are follicular papules, which gradually enlarge and merge into dark red or yellow-red plaques covered with greasy scales or crusts. It can also exhibit exudation, crusting, erosion, and other eczematous changes, and in severe cases, the skin lesions can become widespread throughout the body. To differentiate between tinea capitis and seborrheic dermatitis, besides the symptoms, local skin flakes can be tested in a laboratory using fungal immunofluorescence, as well as bacterial and fungal cultures.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis easily contagious to adults?

Tinea capitis is not very contagious to adults. Because most adults have stronger resistance to fungi, the likelihood of infection is much smaller than in children. This disease is more common in children or people with poorer skin resistance. Tinea capitis includes yellow tinea, white tinea, black tinea, and dragon tinea. Regardless of the type, active antifungal treatment should be received. Avoid eating irritating foods, such as raw ginger, raw onions, pepper, chili, etc.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What shampoo is used for tinea capitis?

Tinea capitis is a highly contagious skin disease. If you are affected by tinea capitis, it is recommended to choose shampoos containing antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole shampoo. This disease is caused by a fungal infection and must be treated promptly. In addition to selecting the appropriate shampoo, you can also combine oral medicines and topical treatments. Diet should be light, avoiding foods that are overly stimulating or "fa-wu" (likely to exacerbate symptoms).

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can tinea capitis be transmitted through hands?

Tinea capitis, the disease in question, is transmissible through hands. It is a superficial fungal infection primarily affecting the scalp and hair, mainly caused by pathogens such as Microsporum ferrugineum and Trichophyton schoenleinii. Transmission can occur through contact with objects like hats, pillowcases, and towels that have been used by others. Additionally, if one has tinea manuum (fungal infection of the hand), it can also lead to the spread of tinea capitis.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How to remove tinea capitis

Tinea capitis is a common skin disease, often caused by a fungal infection of the scalp. To remove tinea capitis, it is suggested to pay attention to the following points: First, wash your hair frequently. You can use topical potassium permanganate solutions for scalp cleansing, removing necrotic tissue, fungi, and some crusts. Second, it is advised to pay attention to personal hygiene and avoid eating spicy foods. Furthermore, for mild cases of tinea capitis, it is advisable to use selenium sulfide cleansers for washing. Lastly, for more severe tinea capitis, it is necessary to use topical antifungal medications such as ketoconazole ointment, along with oral antifungal medications for treatment (the use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor).