How to Test for Ringworm of the Scalp

Ringworm is really a fungal infection, rather than an infection from worms. It presents as red ring spots on the scalp. Ringworm is transmitted from infected people, animals and the soil. After treatment is underway, ringworm is no longer infectious. There are simple tests for ringworm of the scalp. These are done by taking hair or flaky skin samples. Direct observation of the red rings on the scalp is not conclusive of ringworm infection.

Things You'll Need

• Small forceps
• Potassium hydroxide
• Dropper
• Slide
• Bunsen burner
• Petri dish

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Scrape a small sample of the flaky skin of the scalp around the red ring spots. Alternatively, you can pluck ten hair strands from the affected area. Place the sample on a slide.

• 2

  Add a few drops of potassium hydroxide to the skin or hair sample.

• 3

  Heat the underside of the slide gently over a Bunsen burner.

• 4

  Observe the sample on the slide under a microscope. Fungus cells should be visible, if there is a ringworm infection.