What causes tinea capitis and who is at risk

Condition analysis:
Tinea capitis is an infection of the scalp by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. Tinea capitis can appear as scaly and itchy areas of bald skin on the head. Severe infection and inflammation can lead to scarring or permanent hair loss.

Instructions:
Tinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp) is a skin disorder that usually affects only children younger than age ten. It can be persistent and is highly contagious; it is not due to an infection by a worm. Ringworm gets its name from the appearance of the round lesions that occur on the scalp.

The fungi that cause tinea infections thrive in warm, moist areas. You have an increased risk for tinea infection if you have poor hygiene, prolonged wetness of the skin (such as from sweating), and minor skin or scalp injuries.

Other types of tinea infections that can occur include tinea corporis (on the body), tinea cruris ('jock itch' in the groin area), tinea barbae (beard), tinea unguium (nails), or tinea pedis ('athletes' foot).

Tinea infections are contagious. You can catch the skin disorder if you come into direct contact with someone who has the condition, or if you touch contaminated items such as combs, hats, clothing, or similar surfaces. The infection can enter through cut or broken skin. The infection can also be spread by pets, particularly cats or dogs. Horses, pigs and cows can transmit ringworm, too. Missing patches of hair on an animal may be a sign of ringworm, and the animal should be seen by a veterinarian.