Ringworm (scalp)

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Complications

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Image showing kerion Kerion

In some cases, ringworm of the scalp causes kerion — a severe, painful inflammation of the scalp. Kerion appears as soft, raised swellings that drain pus and cause thick, yellow crusting on the scalp. Instead of breaking, the hair falls out or can be easily pulled out. Kerion may be caused by an overly vigorous reaction to the fungus and can lead to permanent scars and hair loss.

Preparing for your appointment Risk factors
References
  1. Goldstein AO, et al. Dermatophyte (tinea) infections. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 17, 2010.
  2. Andrews MD, et al. Common tinea infections in children. American Family Physician. 2008;77:1415.
  3. Levy M, et al. Dermatophytes and other superficial fungi. In: Long S, et al., eds. Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/226852420-3/1084137919/1679/259.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-443-06687-0..50258-7--cesec1_4588. Accessed Nov. 16, 2010.
  4. Ringworm and animals. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/diseases/ringworm.htm. Accessed Nov. 16, 2010.
  5. Dermatophytes (ringworm). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/nczved/divisions/dfbmd/diseases/dermatophytes/. Accessed Nov. 16, 2010.
  6. Andrews RM, et al. Skin disorders, including pyoderma, scabies, and tinea infections. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 2009;56:1421.
  7. Griseofulvin. National Center for Biotechnology Information. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000641. Accessed Nov. 18, 2010.
  8. Terbinafine. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/print/lexicomp/terbinafine.html. Accessed Nov. 18, 2010.
DS00892 Jan. 29, 2011

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