The Assessment and Management of Tinea Capitis in Children

Tinea capitis, a scalp and hair shaft infection caused by dermatophyte fungi, presents with varying symptoms from mild itching to severe tenderness and potential scarring. Diagnosis requires laboratory confirmation through fungal stains or cultures due to the variable clinical presentation and the necessity for prolonged treatment with possible side effects. Systemic therapy is essential as topical antifungals are ineffective in penetrating the hair shaft. Oral griseofulvin is the standard treatment, with terbinafine and itraconazole being effective alternatives, despite lacking FDA approval at the time of the document.