What to know about scalp ringworm in children

Also called tinea capitis, this infection lives around the hair shafts rather than only on the skin surface. A child may have round scaly patches, black dots where hairs have broken, tenderness, crusting, or swollen areas. Some children have enlarged glands in the neck. The infection can spread through close contact and shared combs, brushes, hats, pillows, or sports headgear. It is not caused by poor hygiene.

Arrange a medical assessment rather than relying on an over-the-counter cream, because medicine applied to the scalp may not reach the fungus around the hair roots. A clinician may examine the scalp and take hair or skin material for testing. If treatment is prescribed, give every dose as directed and keep follow-up appointments. An antifungal shampoo may reduce spread, but it does not replace the prescribed oral treatment. Do not share hair tools, wash pillowcases and hats, and ask about checking household contacts or pets when the clinician thinks they may be a source.

Seek prompt medical care for a painful, boggy, swollen scalp, pus, fever, rapidly expanding hair loss, or marked tenderness. These features can indicate a stronger inflammatory reaction that may scar hair follicles if treatment is delayed. Get urgent help if a child seems seriously unwell, develops swelling near the eye, or has difficulty breathing after a medicine.

Ask which signs support the diagnosis, whether a sample should be tested, how long treatment is expected to continue, and whether siblings, caregivers, pets, or shared equipment need assessment. Ask when the child can return to school or sports and how to reduce spread at home.