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[Kerion Celsi. A diagnostic problem? Experience with 6 cases]
L Zaror1, M Hering, M I Moreno
1Instituto de Microbiología Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
Abstract:
We report six patients with Kerion Celsi due to Trichophyton verrucosum. Five of the patients were hospitalized with the diagnosis of Staphylococcal abscess. This confusion is due to that highly suppurative and inflammatory nature of the infection. Griseofulvin is the antimicrobial of choice for treatment, associated with imidazolics and corticosteroids to prevent alopecia. The authors suggest that an adequate use of simple microbiological diagnostic tests in the diagnosis of pyodermitis in rural children, may prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and permanent hair loss.
Insights
Kerion Celsi, a fungal infection, is often misdiagnosed as a bacterial abscess in children. Early microbiological tests can prevent misdiagnosis, unnecessary hospitalizations, and permanent hair loss.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Kerion Celsi is a severe fungal infection of the scalp.
- It is caused by zoophilic dermatophytes, most commonly Trichophyton verrucosum.
- The infection presents with a highly inflammatory and suppurative nature.
Observation:
- Six pediatric patients with Kerion Celsi were reported.
- Five patients were initially hospitalized and treated for Staphylococcal abscess.
- Misdiagnosis occurred due to the infection's severe inflammatory presentation.
Findings:
- Trichophyton verrucosum is the causative agent of Kerion Celsi.
- Griseofulvin is the recommended antimicrobial treatment.
- Adjunctive therapies include imidazolics and corticosteroids to prevent alopecia.
Implications:
- Simple microbiological diagnostic tests are crucial for accurate diagnosis of scalp infections in children.
- Early and correct diagnosis can prevent unnecessary hospitalizations.
- Prompt treatment can prevent permanent hair loss (alopecia).