Ringworm on the head: what to know

Scalp ringworm is a dermatophyte infection involving the hair shaft and nearby skin. It may appear as an itchy scaly patch, areas of short broken hair, tenderness, or swollen spots. A scalp rash is not automatically ringworm, so examination and sometimes hair, skin, or scale testing help separate it from eczema, psoriasis, or other causes. The infection can pass through close contact or shared combs, hats, and bedding. A clinician may check household contacts and pets when the history suggests exposure.

Book a dermatology or primary-care visit if scalp scaling or patchy hair loss is developing. Do not share brushes, hats, towels, pillowcases, or hair accessories; wash these items as directed and clean frequently touched surfaces. A medicated shampoo may reduce spread but often does not clear infection inside hair by itself. Take the prescribed oral antifungal treatment for the full instructed course. A topical antifungal treatment may be useful for selected skin areas, but treatment choice depends on the examination.

Get prompt medical advice for a painful boggy swelling, pus, marked tenderness, fever, or rapidly expanding inflammation. Early review matters when hair is breaking or falling in patches, because untreated scalp infection can inflame the follicles. Seek urgent help if you feel severely unwell or swelling affects the face or eyes.

Ask whether the scalp needs a fungal test, which shampoo can reduce transmission, whether family members or pets should be checked, and when normal hair-care and close contact can resume.