In a child with hair loss and scale on the scalp, fungal infection may be the cause. In tinea capitis (fungal infection of the scalp), there can be thick scaling. In tinea capitis, there can be many areas of hair loss, as displayed in this image. In a fungal infection of the scalp, there can be scaling without hair loss, as displayed in this image. Tinea capitis (a fungal scalp infection) typically has round areas of hair loss with scaling and redness of the scalp. Areas of scaling, redness, and possible hair loss are typical of tinea capitis. Multiple areas of hair loss and scaly patches of skin on the scalp is known as tinea capitis. Tinea capitis (ringworm) can cause thick, white, scaly areas within the scalp. In addition to a thick scale in this patient, there is usually temporary hair loss due to tinea capitis (ringworm).
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Ringworm, Scalp (Tinea Capitis):
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

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Picture of Ringworm, Scalp (Tinea Capitis): In a child with hair loss and scale on the scalp, fungal infection may be the cause. Divider line
In a child with hair loss and scale on the scalp, fungal infection may be the cause.
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Signs and Symptoms
The most common locations for scalp ringworm include:
  • Scalp
  • Eyebrow (rare)
  • Eyelashes (very rare)
Scalp ringworm appears as one or more round to oval areas covered with gray sheets of skin (scale) and is often accompanied by hair loss. The patches may be red and inflamed, and small pus-filled bumps (pustules) may appear. Also, tiny black dots may appear on the surface of the scalp, consisting of broken hairs.

Certain areas (lymph nodes) at the back of the scalp, behind the ears, or along the sides of the neck may be swollen.

One complication of scalp ringworm is a kerion, which is a large, oozing, pus-filled lump. If not treated aggressively, a kerion can lead to scarring and permanent hair loss.

Scalp ringworm is usually itchy.
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

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