Tinea capitis

A fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts, often called ringworm of the scalp.

Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) is a highly contagious fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts.

It's common in children, usually appearing as itchy, scaly, bald patches on the head. Scarring or hair loss sometimes occurs.

Treatment includes oral medications to kill fungi and medicated shampoos to lessen the spread of infection.