Tinea Capitis: Scalp Ringworm Signs & Treatment

Tinea capitis (also called scalp ringworm) is a fungal infection of the scalp that can cause patchy hair loss, scaling, and broken hairs. It’s most common in children, but adults can be affected too. Because it can spread and sometimes cause significant inflammation, it’s important to recognize the signs and get the right treatment.

Medical note: This article is for general education and does not provide personal medical advice. For the full roadmap, start here: Hair Loss (Complete Guide).

Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm): patchy hair loss with scaling and broken hairs. — Tinea capitis often causes scaling and broken hairs. In children, prompt evaluation helps prevent complications and spread.

What is tinea capitis?

Tinea capitis is a scalp infection caused by dermatophyte fungi. It can cause hair to break near the scalp and may lead to visible thinning or bald patches. On our site, it sits under: Non-Scarring Alopecia (Overview) and the main map: Types of Hair Loss.

Common signs

Patchy hair loss with scaling
Broken hairs (sometimes “black dots” where hairs break at the scalp)
Itching is common
Sometimes swollen lymph nodes in the neck

What it can look like

Tinea capitis is a common “look-alike” for alopecia areata. A helpful practical clue is:

Alopecia areata: usually smooth patches with little/no scale.
Tinea capitis: often has scale and broken hairs.
Trichotillomania: irregular patches with hairs broken at different lengths (often from pulling).

How it spreads

It can spread through close contact with an infected person, sharing combs/hats, and sometimes from pets (depending on the fungus). Because it is contagious, treatment and hygiene steps matter.

How it’s diagnosed

Clinicians may diagnose tinea capitis by examining the scalp and considering the pattern (scale + broken hairs). They may also use testing (for example, a fungal test) to confirm.

Treatment that works

Key point: Tinea capitis usually needs oral antifungal medication to fully treat the scalp infection. Shampoos can be helpful as an add-on to reduce spread, but they typically are not enough on their own.

For general treatment expectations, also see: Treatment Overview.

Red flags (don’t wait)

A child with patchy hair loss + scale
Painful, swollen, boggy scalp or pus (possible inflammatory infection)
Fast progression over days to weeks
Fever or feeling unwell

Read: When to See a Doctor.

References (trusted medical sources)

Last updated: January 29, 2026.