Tenia capitis is a fungal infection that often presents with circular marks on the skin with flat centers and raised borders; causing small itchy patches on the scalp.

It is contagious –that means it spreads easily through person to person contact or by sharing combs, towels, hats, pillows. It is most common in children but can affect a person of any age. House pats can also be carriers of the fungal infection (cats, dogs)

Tenea Capitis is caused by fungi called Dermatophytes. It is mostly common in areas of overcrowding with poor hygiene.

Symptoms

• Itchy patches on the scalp
• Section of hair may break off near the affected area of the scalp
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Low grade fever
• Painful scalp

Treatment

Antifungal medication and medicated shampoo

NB: ringworms heals very slowly, therefore it is very important to continue with medication despite slow progress. (It may take more than a month to see some significance improvement)

Prevention

It is difficult to prevent ring worms, however; teach children the risks of sharing other personal items (hairbrushes)

• Normal hygiene routine
• Regular shampooing
• Hand washing