Which Is the Safest Medicine for Scalp Ringworm?

Scalp ringworm---or tinea capitis---is a contagious skin infection of the scalp caused by a fungus. A number of oral antifungal medications are available by prescription only. All of these medications are relatively safe, but each may produce side effects. Physicians may prescribe an oral medication and the use of a medicated shampoo to treat the infection.

The Facts

• Scalp ringworm most often affects children.

  Children usually are more susceptible than adults to scalp ringworm infections, which are more common in hot, humid environments. Scalp ringworm is highly contagious by way of direct contact with an infected person and by touching contaminated items such as combs, brushes or clothing.

  Pets also may spread the infection.

  Scalp ringworm doesn't always look the same. Symptoms may include dry patches of skin or patches of baldness.

Symptoms

• Signs that you may have scalp ringworm are bald patches where hair appears to have broken off, itchy scalp, pus-filled sores or round scaly sores or small black dots. You may also develop a fever.

Prevention

• To prevent scalp ringworm infection, avoid sharing hair brushes or other similar items.

  Good hygiene and regular shampooing of the scalp are the keys to prevention of scalp ringworm. Avoid contact with infected people and do not exchange personal items such as hats, combs, hair clips or similar items with others. Also look for signs of infection in pets, including scaling, hairless areas.

Treatment Considerations

• Medicated shampoos are used in combination with oral-antifungals on scalp ringworm.

  Antifungal treatments used to treat scalp ringworm include griseofulvin, terbinafine and itraconazole. These medications are taken by mouth and the duration of treatment can last up to several months. The most common side effects of antifungals are headaches and nausea. In addition, all members of the household should use a medicated antifungal shampoo that contains ketoconazole or selenium sulfide.

Warning

• Home remedies will not cure scalp ringworm infections.

  While there have been rare cases of liver toxicity associated with oral antifungal medications, home remedies and topical treatments do not effectively treat scalp ringworm. Other possible complications from the infection itself are permanent scars and hair loss.