What is scalp ringworm?

Scalp ringworm is a fairly common skin condition. Let’s learn about scalp ringworm and how to treat it. 

1. What is scalp fungus ? 

The cause of this disease is the dermatophyte fungi Microsporum and Trichophyton. Clinically, the disease can be divided into inflammatory and non-inflammatory tinea capitis. The inflammatory type has the potential to cause complications leading to pus and scarring hair loss. 

Although scalp fungus mainly appears in children, from 3 to 14 years old, however, anyone can get this disease. It has the ability to spread quickly, causing serious health effects if not properly cared for. 

Scalp fungus is mainly caused by dermatophyte fungi. 

Transmission routes of scalp ringworm: 

- Object to person : The disease can be transmitted by touching objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has touched, such as clothing, towels, bed linens, combs, or brushes. 

- From person to person : Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person is a common way of transmission. 

- From animals to humans : Children can get ringworm of the scalp by playing with or petting an animal infected with the fungus. 

Symptoms of scalp fungus can vary , but common signs include red, scaly, flaky, itchy scalp and hair loss. 

2. Treatment drugs: 

2.1. Anti-fungal shampoo 

Antifungal shampoos containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide may slow or stop the spread of the infection. However, other treatments may be needed to achieve the best results. 

2.2. Direct topical medication 

Topical antifungal medications such as allylamines and fluconazole can be effective in mild, non-serious cases. Topical medications can also be used as a preventative measure to prevent recurrence. 

2.3. Oral medication: 

Oral antifungal medications such as griseofulvin, itraconazole, or terbinafine are often prescribed for severe scalp infections. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may last from four to six weeks. 

In addition, with inflammatory forms, it is necessary to combine the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as systemic steroids for a short time to help reduce the inflammatory response, while reducing the risk of permanent hair loss. 

Scalp fungus is highly contagious and can spread to other parts of the body if not properly cared for. 

2.4. Side effects to note 

Antifungal drugs are generally quite safe and rarely have side effects. However, the drug is contraindicated in some cases, such as pregnant women. In addition, the drug can affect sperm quality, so men should use contraception during and for 6 months after treatment with griseofulvin. 

When symptoms such as loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, dark urine, discolored stools, yellowing of the conjunctiva or skin, bleeding, sore throat, fever, etc. appear, treatment should be discontinued and a physician should be consulted immediately. 

3. Home treatment steps 

- Keep scalp clean, wash hair with anti-fungal shampoo. 

- Since family members may be carriers, antifungal shampoos should also be used to reduce the number of spores and prevent the infection from returning. 

- Hairbrushes should be replaced or washed with a disinfectant such as a bleach solution. A bleach solution can be made by mixing one part bleach with one part water, then soaking the hairbrush or comb for one hour each day for the first three days after using the shampoo and medication. 

- Wash towels with soap and water and dry.