Getting Ahead of Tinea Capitis

Tinea capitis, a fungal infection of the scalp, presented in various forms from mild scaling to severe alopecia and inflamed kerions, was most common in children aged 6-10 but could also affect adolescents and adults. The dermatophyte Trichophyton tonsurans caused 50%-90% of cases in the UK, necessitating mycological testing due to the variety of potential pathogens. Infections could be protected from topical antifungals by the hair shaft, and despite the condition's prevalence, few oral antifungals were approved. However, a 6-12 week course of oral griseofulvin achieved mycological cures in 70%-100% of cases, with topical antifungals potentially reducing transmission and nurses advising on preventive measures.