Sudden hair loss with red pathes on scalp
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| Full Name: | juhi chawla |
| Email Address: | juhichawla54@yahoo.com |
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| i am 20 yrs old n student..1and half year back i had very beautiful and thick hairs but now they have become very thin..i have this problem of hair loss since more than a year..i took many treatments but nothing worked..my problem started in july 2008..suddenly hairfall started which was accompanied with some allergy.. i really dont know if it is psoriasis..wen this problem started i use to develop red patches in few areas of my scalp and it use to itch alot..i consulted many doctors but no treatment worked..still my problem is same-lot of haifall,itching in the scalp wid small red acnes at times..somtimes i feel very depressed because of this itching and hairfall but still am hoping it might cure someday..i really need your help..i want to get rid of this problem..currently am taking homeopathic treatment from dr.batras but even it is not working..i want some natural treatment because now i hate medicines…eagerly waiting for your reply… | |
Answer:
This type of hair loss sounds like it could be caused by seborrhea, lichen planus or ringworm.
Or: Tinea capitis
| Treatment Return to topAnti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection. Griseofulvin, terbinafine, and itraconazole are often used to treat this condition.
Keep the area clean. A medicated shampoo, such as one containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, may reduce the spread of infection. Other family members and pets should be examined and treated, if necessary. |
Alternative Names Return to top
Fungal infection – scalp; Infection – fungal – scalp; Tinea of the scalp; Ringworm – scalp
Definition Return to top
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp.
Causes Return to top
Tinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp) is caused by by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. It usually affects children and disappears at puberty. However, it can occur at any age.
The fungi that cause tinea infections thrive in warm, moist areas. You have an increased risk for tinea infection if you have:
- Minor skin or scalp injuries
- Poor hygiene
- Wet skin for a long time (such as from sweating)
Tinea infections are contagious. You can catch tinea capitis if you come into direct contact with someone who has the condition, or if you touch contaminated items such as combs, hats, or clothing. The infection can also be spread by pets, particularly cats.
Symptoms Return to top
Symptoms include:
- Areas that appear bald, due to hair that has broken off
- Itching of the scalp
- Pus-filled sores (lesions) on the scalp (kerions)
- Round, scaly lesions on the scalp that may be red or swollen (inflamed)
- Small black dots on the scalp
Exams and Tests Return to top
The appearance of the scalp will make the health care provider suspect tinea capitis.
Tests may include:
- Skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination or culture
- Wood’s lamp test to confirm a fungal scalp infection
Treatment Return to top
Anti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection. Griseofulvin, terbinafine, and itraconazole are often used to treat this condition.
Keep the area clean. A medicated shampoo, such as one containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, may reduce the spread of infection. Other family members and pets should be examined and treated, if necessary.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Tinea capitis may be extremely persistent, and it may return after treatment. In many cases it gets better on its own when the person reaches puberty.
Possible Complications Return to top
- Hair loss
- Permanent scars
- Pus-filled sores (kerions)
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of tinea capitis. Home care remedies do not effectively treat tinea capitis.
Prevention Return to top
Good general hygiene is important to prevent and treat tinea infections. Shampoo the scalp regularly, especially after haircuts.
Avoid contact with infected pets or people. Do not exchange headgear, combs, and similar items unless they are first thoroughly cleaned and dried.
References Return to top
Andrews MD, Burns M. Common tinea infections in children. Am Fam Physician. 2008;77:1415-1420.
Update Date: 10/3/2008
Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. You will need to see your doctor for the appropriate treatment.
