Management of tinea capitis. A status report
Del Rosso, J.Q.; Gupta, A.K.
Postgraduate Medicine Spec No: 38-45
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0032-5481 PMID: 10492665 Document Number: 507646
Tinea capitis is the most common pediatric fungal infection, usually affecting school-age children. It is caused by a dermatophyte from the genus Trichophyton or Microsporum. The predominant pathogens vary according to geographic location. Infection rates are higher in urban regions, especially those with overcrowded living conditions. In the United States, the incidence is highest among African-American children and appears to be significantly lower among Asian Americans. Tinea capitis may persist into adulthood, especially in females with Trichophyton tonsurans infection. Tinea capitis also has been reported in neonates, infants, and elderly patients.