TLDR Oral medication is necessary to treat scalp fungus in children, with griseofulvin being the usual choice.
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.
65 citations,
January 2005 in “American journal of clinical dermatology” Children with scalp fungal infections need proper diagnosis and treatment, usually with antifungal medications, and newer drugs may offer quicker recovery.
91 citations,
July 2004 in “BMJ. British medical journal” The document concludes that molluscum contagiosum is a common, benign skin infection in children, often healing without scarring.
[object Object] 46 citations,
January 2002 in “Paediatric drugs” Tinea capitis, a scalp fungal infection in children, is best treated with newer antifungal agents for shorter periods.
41 citations,
September 2007 in “Pediatric emergency care” Oral medication is necessary to treat scalp fungus in children, with griseofulvin being the usual choice.
[object Object] 65 citations,
January 2005 in “American journal of clinical dermatology” Children with scalp fungal infections need proper diagnosis and treatment, usually with antifungal medications, and newer drugs may offer quicker recovery.
