Kerion Celsi in Infants and Children: A Narrative Review 2010–2023

Kerion Celsi is a deep fungal infection of the scalp, primarily affecting children aged 3 years and older. It presents with symptoms such as swelling, boggy lesions, pain, alopecia, and purulent secretions, and can lead to secondary bacterial infections. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination, medical history, and confirmation through microscopy, fungal culture, and molecular procedures. The most common fungi involved are Trichophyton tonsurans and Microsporum canis. Treatment involves systemic and topical antifungals, with systemic antibiotics as needed, while surgery should be avoided to prevent scarring alopecia. Early and adequate treatment is crucial, and the condition must be differentiated from bacterial skin infections.