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Pediatric Ringworm in Children
Pediatric Ringworm in Children
Commonly believed to be caused by a worm, ringworm is actually caused by one of two fungi known as Trichophyton tonsurans and Microsporum. The harmless fungus can infect the skin of the body (tinea corporis), scalp (tinea capitis), groin (tinea cruris), and feet (tinea pedis). Although people of any age can contract ringworm, it is most commonly seen in children.
Ringworm on the Rise in the U.S.
A 2010 study conducted in 44 Kansas City elementary schools, with grades kindergarten through fifth, found that 7 percent of the 10, 514 students attending were infected with ringworm of the scalp, or tinea captitis. On the scalp, ringworm appears as itchy, scaly patches where hair has fallen out. If left untreated, it can spread all over the scalp and result in permanent hair loss. Pediatricians and educators claim to see increasing numbers of ringworm cases of all types in their offices and classrooms.
Characteristics of Ringworm
When on the body, ringworm appears as a red, circular rash with clear skin in the middle. The scaly lesions itch and can spread to other parts of the body. On the scalp, it has a similar appearance, but may be mistaken for dandruff. When left untreated, it causes hair to fall out, leaving bald spots. Infected nails appear discolored and yellowish, become brittle, thick, and crumble or flake easily.
Children Are the Most Susceptible
Children in school environments, especially those in crowded city schools, run the risk of contracting ringworm from infected classmates. Children are more likely to handle family pets or pets of others with untreated ringworm or practice poor hygiene. The fungus also commonly grows in soil and children can encounter it by playing in loose soil or dirt. Children in warm, humid climates, or those who are immuno-compromised due to disease or medications, also have increased risk of infection by the fungus that causes ringworm.
Home Treatment
Many over-the-counter anti-fungal treatments exist that can often effectively treat ringworm infections found on the body, feet, or groin area. Pharmacies offer the medications in powders, lotions, and creams. Check the ingredient label before purchasing an over-the-counter remedy to verify it contains miconazole, clotrimazole, or other anti-fungal medication. Wash your child's bed linens and towels daily and keep the affected area clean and dry. Most infections should resolve within four weeks.
When to See a Doctor
Ringworm infecting the body that does not resolve, within four weeks, with proper home treatment and hygiene will require a visit to your local pediatrician. He can prescribe a stronger topical medication for these persistent skin conditions. All ringworm infections of the scalp, and most of the nails, require a four-week course of prescription oral antifungal medication. Additionally, you should call your doctor if your child's ringworm seems to worsen, swell, redden, or ooze. He or she may have a bacterial infection due to scratching the lesions.
Prevention of Ringworm
To prevent ringworm, dry your child's feet thoroughly after bathing. Shampoo his or her hair often, especially after a haircut. Instruct your child not to share combs, brushes, or hats. Invest in a pair of water shoes for your child to wear while swimming in a pool or lake. These also prevent cuts and scrapes from rough pool bottoms and sides or rocks and sticks in lakes. Remind your child to wash hands often, especially after playing outside. Finally, tell your child to avoid touching animals with patches of missing hair as this could indicate ringworm.
When in Doubt, Call the Doctor
If your child has a persistent, unexplained skin lesion, make an appointment with your pediatric clinic. He or she can quickly determine whether the condition needs prescription treatment or requires further evaluation. Using An Ovulation Calendar To Get Pregnant With A Boy Baby Childhood Appendicitis: Diagnosis and Treatment Birthday Activities For Kids: Select The Best One! How to Prepare for Natural Childbirth Why Train Sets Are Still In-demand Gifts for Kids Eagle Ranch Academy Works With Different Kinds of Troubled Teens Eagle Ranch Academy Provides Fitness and Nutrition Support for Teens Struggling With Obesity and Eating Disorders Children's Christmas Gifts! Over-Coming Fear of Water is a More Common Issue than One Thinks*Swim Class with AquaSkills is For Adults as well as Children* South Florida teen concerned in deadly DUI crash pleads guilty Bearpaw Kids Boots – Made Specially For Our Children Complete Your Children's Book Collection Top Children's Designer Clothes Make Perfect Gifts