Tinea Capitis in Children: Treatment and Hair Regrowth Concerns

Q: Tinea Capitis in Children: Treatment and Hair Regrowth Concerns

Dear Miss Tong： Six weeks of oral treatment for tinea capitis is sufficient. <br>Fine hair is now growing and will gradually transform into coarse hair; it just requires time to recover. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Jiang Yu-Jiao, Director of the Dermatology Department, Taoyuan Hospita

Tinea capitis

Dr.
Jiang: I would like to ask you, my child has developed tinea capitis on the scalp.
He has been on oral medication for six weeks at another hospital and is currently only applying topical medication.
However, in addition to a significant bald patch, fine hair resembling baby hair is starting to grow.
Some areas at the back of the head seem to have enlarged.
Is this a normal phenomenon during the treatment process, or should I take him for another consultation? How long does it typically take for hair to regrow? Thank you for your assistance!

Miss Tong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/28

Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology

Dear Miss Tong: Six weeks of oral treatment for tinea capitis is sufficient.
Fine hair is now growing and will gradually transform into coarse hair; it just requires time to recover.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jiang Yu-Jiao, Director of the Dermatology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2007/09/28

More Info

Tinea capitis, commonly known as scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection that primarily affects children. It can lead to hair loss, scalp inflammation, and in some cases, the formation of scaly patches. The treatment for tinea capitis typically involves antifungal medications, which can be administered orally or topically. In the case presented, the child has been on oral antifungal medication for six weeks and is now using topical treatments. The concerns raised about hair regrowth and scalp changes are quite common among parents dealing with this condition.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the hair regrowth process after tinea capitis can vary significantly from child to child. After the infection is treated, it is normal for the hair to initially grow back as fine, soft hair, often referred to as "vellus" hair, which resembles baby hair. This is a positive sign indicating that the hair follicles are recovering from the fungal infection. Over time, with continued care and treatment, these fine hairs will typically thicken and mature into normal terminal hair. However, this process can take several months, and patience is essential.

Regarding the observation that certain areas of the scalp appear larger, this could be due to a few factors. Inflammation from the fungal infection can cause temporary swelling of the scalp, which may give the appearance of an enlarged area. Additionally, if there was significant hair loss, the contrast between the bald patches and the surrounding hair may also create an optical illusion of enlargement. If the scalp appears excessively swollen or if there are signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or pus), it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

If the child has been on treatment for six weeks and is still experiencing significant hair loss or if there are any new symptoms, it is prudent to follow up with a healthcare provider. They may want to reassess the treatment plan, possibly considering a different antifungal medication or additional therapies. It is also essential to ensure that the child is not experiencing any adverse reactions to the medication, which could manifest as unusual symptoms.

In summary, while the initial regrowth of fine hair and changes in scalp appearance can be normal during the recovery from tinea capitis, ongoing monitoring is crucial. If there are any concerns about the treatment's effectiveness or the child's scalp condition, seeking further medical advice is recommended. Regular follow-ups with a dermatologist specializing in pediatric skin conditions can provide reassurance and ensure that the child receives the best possible care during their recovery.

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