Childhood Hair Loss Diagnosis and Treatments From Simone Thomas Trichology Clinic in Westbourne
At our hair loss clinic in Bournemouth we see many cases of hair loss in children and understand how distressing it can be. There can be many causes of childhood hair loss and this blog is centred on Tinea Capitis which is the most common cause of hair loss in children.
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What Is Tinea Capitis?
Tinea Capitis is also known as ringworm of the scalp. It is caused by a superficial fungal infection of the skin around the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes, which has a tendency to attack the hair shafts and follicles, resulting in hair loss.
The disease is considered to be a form of superficial mycosis or dermatophytosis. Several other names are used when referring to this infection, including ringworm of the scalp and Tinea Tonsurans.
What Does Ringworm of the Scalp Look Like?
Children with Tinea Capitis usually have patchy hair loss with some broken-off hairs visible just above the surface of the scalp. The patches of hair loss are usually round or oval, but sometimes irregular. Sometimes the hairs are broken right at the surface, and look like little black dots on the scalp. Sometimes grey flakes or scales are seen.
How Can Tinea Capitis Be Treated
Tinea Capitis is usually treated with an antifungal medication taken orally. Tinea Capitis is also treated with a special shampoo, which is used to wash the scalp 2-3 times a week. It is very important to continue the use of the oral medication and shampoo for the entire 8 weeks. Treatment failure is common when medications are not taken everyday for the full 8 weeks and hair loss continues.
Is Tinea Capitis Contageous?
Children who have Tinea Capitis are not required to stay off school if treatment is used as directed. Most children are not contagious when using the oral medication and shampoo and the condition responds well to treatment when taken as prescribed.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Child Has Tinea Capitis?
Here at Simone Thomas we suggest you seek medical advice from your GP who will be able to diagnose and prescribe the correct medication and treatment for your child.
Book An Appointment At Simone Thomas Dorset Hair Loss Clinic
If you feel that your child may be suffering from hair loss and you’d like further advice, please call 01202 760003 to book a hair loss consultation with one of our expert team.
Simone Thomas provide a variety of hair loss treatments such as hair extensions, hair pieces and real human hair wigs.