Can tinea capitis be transmitted to other people?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on April 05, 2025
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Tinea capitis can indeed be contagious to others, as it is a superficial fungal infection that is highly contagious. Transmission of tinea capitis generally occurs through direct or indirect contact, such as during haircuts or sharing personal items. The groups most susceptible to this infection are generally children and adults with lower immune resistance. Therefore, it is crucial to receive prompt treatment for tinea capitis and to use separate towels, bath towels, and washcloths from others.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Pathways of transmission of tinea capitis

Tinea capitis is a type of superficial fungal infection of the skin, primarily affecting the scalp and hair. The transmission routes for tinea capitis primarily include direct contact or indirect contact. It can be transmitted through direct contact with other tinea capitis patients or animals, as well as through indirect contact with items such as towels, pillows, combs, and scissors used by others. Therefore, it is important to maintain cleanliness and avoid sharing personal items, especially with others who have tinea capitis.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis highly contagious?

Tinea capitis is highly contagious because it is a fungal infection primarily caused by dermatophytes. It can be transmitted through direct contact or indirectly, including through shared use of hairdressing tools or communal hygiene items. Some patients may also contract tinea capitis from infected domestic animals like cats and dogs. This disease particularly tends to infect children or individuals with weakened immune systems.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How to treat seborrheic dermatitis with discharge?

Tinea capitis is a common skin disease related to fungal infection. If tinea capitis causes oozing, it may be due to a secondary bacterial infection or from scratching that causes the oozing. In such cases, it is crucial to treat promptly with anti-infection medications, typically anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, avoid scratching or washing with hot water. It is recommended to use mild medicinal solutions for application and shampooing. Also, avoid eating spicy and irritating foods, and avoid contact with cats and dogs.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Does tinea capitis itch?

Tinea capitis is a common superficial fungal infection of the skin, divided into types such as yellow tinea and white tinea, which are contagious. Tinea capitis causes itchy symptoms, and in addition to itching, there may also be symptoms such as increased dandruff, and skin discoloration to white or yellow, often accompanied by scales. Once tinea capitis occurs, it is essential to timely treat it with antifungal medications and to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the scalp, developing good hygiene habits. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Tinea Capitis Clinical Symptoms

Tinea capitis varies in clinical symptoms depending on its classification. If it is yellow tinea, it presents as yellow crusts on the scalp, with ulcers or erosion visible beneath the crusts. If it is white tinea, white scaly patches can be seen, generally with clear boundaries that may merge. If it is black dot tinea, hair breaking off shortly after emerging from the scalp appears as small black dots. If it is pustular tinea, the scalp shows redness and swelling with pus formation.