AbstractChildren are more susceptible to fungal infections. Hair infection by fungal agents, also called trichomycoses, is one of the common concerns in human beings. Dermatophytes, Malassezia species and organisms causing piedra are the common mycological agents causing hair infections. Tinea Capitis (TC) is an infection of scalp hair shaft and the surrounding caused by dermatophytes.
Aim: To study the clinical patterns of tinea capitis in rural children.
Materials and Methods: This is a cross sectional study. A total of 50 children with TC were included. Detailed clinical history, Woods lamp examination and microscopic examination using Potassium hydroxide (KOH) were done.
Results: Among 50 children, 64% (32) had non- inflammatory type, 28% (14) had inflammatory type of TC. Only two children showed positive fluorescence in Wood's lamp examination. Out of 50 specimens subjected for KOH examination, 92% (46) showed positive results. Ectothrix was the commonest type noted in 44% (22) of cases followed by mixed type in 26% (13) of cases and Endothrix in 22% (11) cases.
Conclusion: TC remains a common childhood infection in many parts of the world. Earlier treatment can prevent complications like cicatricial alopecia, secondary bacterial infections and significantly improves the quality of life of affected children.
