Mycosis on the scalp is caused by the presence of fungi on the head, more precisely on the scalp. Mycosis on the head is called tinea capitis. Mycosis on the scalp is caused by fungi called dermatophytes.

Fungi are microorganisms that can live in the dead tissues of hair (hair fungi), nails, and the outer layers of the skin, thriving in hot, humid areas.

Fungi that cause mycosis on the head can spread easily. Tinea capitis is more common in boys and tendencies to disappear at puberty. However, scalp mycosis can occur in people of any age.

What can cause mycosis on the scalp?

The risk of developing mycosis on the scalp is higher if:

• There are small lesions on the scalp.
• The head is not washed frequently.
• The scalp becomes wet for a long time, such as when the person sweats too much.
• A person can develop mycosis on the head if they have direct contact with any mycosis located in any part of the body of another person.

Hair mycosis can also be transmitted through combs, hats, or clothing that has been worn by someone with mycosis. The infection can also be transmitted by domestic animals, especially cats.

What are the symptoms of mycosis on the scalp?

Tinea capitis can partially or totally affect the scalp.

The areas of the head affected by mycosis have the following characteristics:

• Hair loss with small black spots, due to hair strands that have become loose.
• Circle shape.
• Flaky skin, which may be red or swollen, indicating the presence of inflammation.
• Presence of pus sores.
• Intense itching.

The individual may still have a low fever and the presence of lymph nodes in the neck.

Mycosis on the scalp can cause hair loss and long-lasting scarring on the head.

What is the treatment for mycosis on the scalp?

Treatment of mycosis on the scalp is done with an oral antifungal, which kills the fungus in the hair. The medication should be taken for 4 to 8 weeks.

Treatment of ringworm of the scalp also includes the use of scalp mycosis shampoo containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide. Shampoo can reduce or prevent the spread of the fungus, but it is not enough to cure mycosis on the head. Additionally, it is important to keep the scalp clean.

Once the shampoo begins to be used, the following precautions should be taken:

• Wash towels in hot soapy water and dry them on high heat.
• Soak combs and hair brushes for an hour in a mixture of bleach and water. The solution should be one part bleach and ten parts water. This should be done for 3 days in a row.
• Additionally, no one in the house should share combs, hair brushes, hats, towels, pillowcases, or helmets with other people.

Mycosis on the scalp can be difficult to additionally. eliminate, ringworm capitis can recur even after treatment. However, in many cases, cases of mycosis of the head tend to improve spontaneously after puberty.

The dermatologist is the specialist responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of mycosis on the scalp.