Tinea capitis: dermoscopy and calcium fluorescent microscopy as highly efficient and precise diagnostic tools

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Tinea capitis, a fungal infection of the scalp, commonly affects school-aged children and can present with subtle signs.
• Tinea favosa and kerion are specific clinical presentations of tinea capitis.
• Subtle presentations of tinea capitis are often overlooked during routine examinations.

Observation:

• An 8-year-old girl presented with a year-long history of scalp pruritus.
• Clinical examination, dermoscopy, and fungal culture confirmed tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton violaceum.
• Specific dermoscopic findings, including comma and corkscrew hairs, aided in diagnosis.

Findings:

• Trichophyton violaceum is an etiological agent of tinea capitis.
• Dermoscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing tinea capitis, revealing characteristic hair abnormalities.
• Fungal culture provides definitive confirmation of the causative agent.

Implications:

• Early and accurate diagnosis of tinea capitis is crucial for effective management.
• Dermoscopy can improve the detection rate of subtle tinea capitis cases.
• A combination of systemic and topical antifungal treatments can successfully manage tinea capitis.