Ringworm (Scalp)

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can often diagnose ringworm of the scalp by examining the affected skin and asking questions about symptoms. To confirm the condition, a small sample of hair or skin may be collected and sent to a lab. Testing these samples can show whether a fungus is present and help rule out other scalp conditions with similar symptoms.

Treatment

Ringworm of the scalp is treated with prescription antifungal medicine taken by mouth. The first-choice treatment is usually griseofulvin. If this medicine is not effective or if a child is allergic to it, alternatives such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be used. Treatment often lasts for six weeks or longer, until the hair regrows. With proper treatment, bald patches usually fill in again, and the skin heals without scarring.

A medicated prescription shampoo may also be recommended to wash the child’s hair. This helps remove fungus spores and lowers the risk of spreading the infection to others or to different parts of the body.

Shaving or cutting the hair is not required as part of treatment.