Tinea Capitis: Hair Loss in Children
Hair loss among children, although not rampant, is an issue one should also be aware of. Any case of which should be immediately consulted to a pediatrician as soon as it is noticed for proper diagnosis and medication.
One of the hair loss types found in children is called Tina Capitis, or the ringworm of the scalp. It is caused by fungal infection of the skin, specifically the scalp, eyebrows and eyelashes. It has a propensity of attacking hair shafts and follicles, which is a serious concern that should not be taken for granted. There are many terms for this kind of hair loss, some of which are ringworm of the scalp or tinea tonsurans. It is considered to be a form of superficial mycosis or dermatophytosis.
Tinea Capitis is characterized by patchy hair loss which form round, oval, or irregular patches on the scalp, some of which look like hair broken on the surface. There may also be grey flakes or scales visible in the area.
The number of children suffering from this hair loss disease is rising, and with infection more prone everywhere, care, or if infected, immediate medication is needed.