Definition
Tinea capitis, otherwise known as hair ringworm, is a highly contagious fungal infection of the scalp, in which there is a skin peeling associated with erythema and temporary hair loss. Tinea capitis is typical of children in pediatric age. .
- Tinea capitis in children results in tinea barbae in adults: this infection involves the skin surface where the beard grows.
Causes
Tinea capitis is the consequence of a fungal attack sustained in particular by fungi belonging to the genera Trichophyton And Microsporum: these pathogens create damage by feeding on the keratin contained within the epidermis and the pilier follicles of the scalp.
- Predisposing factors: crowded places, poor personal hygiene, use of infected brushes or combs
Symptoms
Symptoms associated with tinea capitis do not manifest immediately after infection: in fact, the incubation time of the fungus is estimated to be 10-14 days. After this time, patchy hair loss is noted in the little patient, accompanied by peeling, crusting, itching and pus.
The information on Ringworm of the Hair - Tinea Capitis Cure Drugs is not intended to replace the direct relationship between health professional and patient. Always consult your doctor and / or specialist before taking Ringworm - Tinea Capitis Medicines.
Medicines
Unlike tinea pedis, in which the elective pharmacological treatment consists in the topical application of antifungals, oral administration of the same is recommended in tinea capitis: in fact, infections affecting the scalp are more difficult to treat, they present a longer course and the particular localization of the damage does not require - except in particular cases - a topical treatment.
However, to speed up healing times, it is recommended to use specific shampoos, containing ketoconazole and selenium disulfide. Generally, the hair should be cleansed with these shampoos 2-3 times a week, for at least 6 weeks. The administration of these products is essential to prevent contagion or in any case the spread of the fungus through the air; however, it must be remembered that the use, even if constant, of the shampoo alone is not sufficient to remove the fungus from the infected site.
It is also recommended to pay particular attention to pets, ideal reservoirs for the proliferation of fungi: as often happens, animals are healthy carriers, which means that, even if they do not show any symptoms of tinea capitis, they can still transmit the disease to all. "man.
The following are the classes of drugs most used in the therapy against tinea capitis, and some examples of pharmacological specialties; it is up to the doctor to choose the most suitable active ingredient and dosage for the patient, based on the severity of the disease, the state of health of the patient and his response to treatment:
- Griseofulvin (eg Fulcin): this is the drug of excellence indicated for the treatment of infantile tinea capitis. Indicatively, the dose is to take 10-25 mg / kg per day orally, and to continue the therapy for 8- 10 weeks, even after symptoms improve. Do not interrupt therapy: such behavior increases the risk of relapse. Among the side effects of the drug, hypersensitivity to light is one of the most recurrent; among other adverse effects, we remember: weakness, diarrhea, stomach pain, general malaise, dizziness, vomiting.
- Terbinafine (eg Terbinafina Docgen): the drug is available in granules to be taken orally, with food or liquid. The dosage should be determined according to the age and weight of the patient. For example, if the child is over 4 years old and weighs less than 25 kilos, it is recommended to take 125 mg of the drug once a day. If the weight is between 25 and 35 kilos, take 187.5 mg orally, once a day. When the weight exceeds 35 kilos, the recommended dose for the treatment of tinea capitis is 250 mg, orally, once a day . The duration of therapy is 6 weeks, although some patients require longer periods (8 weeks) for the complete remission of symptoms. For adults with tinea capitis (which is however rare) it is recommended to take 250 mg of the drug per day. day, for 6-8 weeks Also this drug is not without side effects: altered taste of food, diarrhea, stomach pain, hives, itching, skin rash, vomiting.
- Itraconazole (eg Sporanox): indicatively, take 5 mg / kg of drug over 24 hours. The duration of treatment varies from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.
Adjuvants to antifungal therapy for the treatment of tinea capitis
- Selenium disulfide (eg Selsun Blu): the product is available both as a shampoo (1-2.25%), and as a foam, for topical application. Wash your hair 3 times a week for at least 6 weeks. The application of this product may irritate the scalp: in this case, contact your doctor immediately.
- Ketoconazole (eg Asquam 2% shampoo, Triatop 1% shampoo): to be preferred over selenium disulfide, since it causes less irritation on the scalp. It is advisable to wash the hair of the child with tinea capitis at least 2-3 times a week, for 6 weeks.
