Tinea Capitis — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateInfectious DiseaseTinea CapitisRACP Paediatrics

A 7-year-old has a 3-week history of a scaly, boggy swelling on the scalp with hair loss. There is associated posterior cervical lymphadenopathy. The lesion fluoresces under Wood lamp. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: D — Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)

Tinea capitis presents with scaly patches of alopecia, sometimes with a kerion (boggy inflammatory mass). Posterior cervical lymphadenopathy is characteristic. Some species (Microsporum) fluoresce under Wood lamp. Treatment requires systemic antifungals (oral griseofulvin or terbinafine) as topical therapy alone does not penetrate hair follicles.

Reference: Therapeutic Guidelines – 2024 – Dermatology: Tinea Capitis