What will happen if tinea capitis is not treated?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on April 10, 2025
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Once afflicted with tinea capitis, it is essential to treat it proactively. If left untreated, it can lead to several severe consequences. Firstly, it might cause atrophic scarring, leaving permanent bald patches, which significantly affects appearance,

Secondly, there might also be secondary bacterial infections due to crusting of the scalp, producing a foul smell and intense itching, severely impacting the quality of life. Lastly, if purulent tinea forms, it could lead to the scalp becoming purulent and eventually cause a systemic infection.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Symptoms of tinea capitis

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 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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) and tinea versicolor serious?

Tinea capitis comes in many forms, among which white piedra is a type. Regardless of the type, all are caused by fungal infections. The main manifestation of white piedra is a white appearance accompanied by peeling, itching, and in severe cases, hair loss. It is treatable with a complete cure possible, but it is crucial to undergo proper treatment. Antifungal medications, such as clotrimazole cream or bifonazole cream, can be used for application.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis contagious?

Tinea capitis is contagious and has a relatively strong infectivity. It is especially prone to infect infants, children, and people with compromised immune functions due to underlying diseases. It can be spread through contact, including both direct and indirect contacts. For instance, sharing towels or other personal hygiene items can lead to infection, and contact with animals such as cats or dogs that have dermatophytosis can also transmit the disease.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis contagious?

Tinea capitis is contagious and highly infectious. It commonly occurs in children and is related to poor hygiene, inadequate cleaning of the scalp, and contact with other individuals or animals infected with tinea capitis. Once tinea capitis appears, it should be taken seriously and treated promptly. If left untreated, it could lead to severe consequences, such as permanent hair loss. Tinea capitis should be addressed by a dermatologist, and it is advised to seek medical attention promptly.