Ringworm, more formally known as tinea capitis, is a fungal infection infecting the scalp and hair follicles. It is not caused by a worm, nor are there any worms present during an infection. The affliction takes its name from its ring-like appearance. Though ringworm can affect anyone, children are most prone to fungal scalp infection during their toddler years, notes BabyCenter.
Causes
Scalp fungus is a highly contagious, easily transmissible infection caused by various types of mold-like fungi, called dermatophytes. These fungi also affect other parts of the body. Athlete's foot, jock itch and body ringworm are the same infection. Your toddler most likely got a scalp fungal infection directly from another person or an infected pet. The infection also is spread readily through objects touched by a person or animal with ringworm.
Symptoms
Patches of scaly skin that are bald or covered in broken hairs are a common sign of a scalp fungal infection. Hairs in the affected area typically break off at or just above the scalp, and sometimes the broken hairs appear as black spots on the scalp. Some hairs may be brittle or pull out easily. The scaly areas sometimes have a reddish or grayish hue, and they can expand. Areas affected by ringworm often are tender, painful or itchy. A moist, swollen area of inflammation with small pustules, called kerion, sometimes appears as well.
Treatment
Take your toddler to the doctor for a scalp fungal infection. Treatment involves an oral antifungal medication such as griseofulvin or terbinafine hydrochloride. This is sometimes prescribed in conjunction with a medicated antifungal shampoo containing 2.5 percent selenium sulfide, adds MayoClinic.com. Treatment typically takes six to eight weeks. There is some risk of bacterial infection if your toddler scratches affected areas of his scalp. Discourage scratching as much as possible and, if necessary, put mittens or socks on his hands overnight to avoid scratching during sleep.
Prevention
It isn't entirely possible to prevent a scalp fungal infection on a toddler, especially one who attends day care or is otherwise around other children. You can minimize the chances, though. Discourage your child from sharing brushes, combs, hats, clothing, towels, pillows and other items that come into contact with other peoples' scalps. Wash your toddler's hair with shampoo every day or two, especially if he is around other kids, and after haircuts. Take your pets to the vet for checkups and regularly check them for scaly or hairless spots. If you notice any such areas, take your pet to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
