A fungal infection of the scalp by mold-like fungi is called tinea
capitis. Tinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp) is a
skin disorder that affects children almost exclusively. It can be
persistent and very contagious. Symptoms may consist of itching,
scaly, inflamed balding areas on the scalp. Oral antifungal
medications are required to treat the infection.
Review Date: 10/04/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center
for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed
Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
