What is the difference between ringworm and alopecia areata, their symptoms, and how to treat them? Many people cannot differentiate between alopecia areata and ringworm of the scalp, as both cause bald patches on the scalp. We will learn the difference between them and effective treatment methods in the rest of the article.
What is ringworm of the scalp
Ringworm of the scalp is a fungal skin infection that affects the scalp, causing scaly skin and hair loss due to itching. This fungus is contagious and can spread between people or through contact with infected animals.
What is alopecia
Alopecia is a non-contagious immune-mediated skin condition that causes hair loss and appears as circular or oval patches of hairless hair on the scalp or other areas of the body.
Symptoms of ringworm of the scalp and alopecia areata
Signs of ringworm of the scalp include:
- A rash and the appearance of red, scaly, circular patches with raised edges.
- Hair loss and bald patches on the scalp.
- Scalp flaking.
- Itching of the scalp.
- Painful sores that ooze pus in severe cases.
Symptoms of alopecia include:
- Patchwork hair loss, with coin-sized bald patches.
- Smooth, smooth bald patches devoid of hair follicles.
- Sudden, round or oval bald patches.
Causes of Ringworm of the Scalp
Ringworm of the scalp results from a fungal infection that is transmitted through contact with an infected person or animal or by sharing personal items.
The risk of infection increases in people with weakened immunity, excessive sweating, contact sports, and living in warm areas.
What are the causes of alopecia
Alopecia is usually caused by an autoimmune deficiency disorder and is often due to genetic and hereditary causes. It may also occur in people with autoimmune diseases such as thyroiditis and vitiligo.
What is the difference between ringworm of the scalp and alopecia areata
The main difference is that tinea capitis is a contagious fungal infection that causes bald, scaly, itchy patches on the scalp, while alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes sudden hair loss.
Treatment of Tinea Capitis
Treatment for tinea capitis relies primarily on medications prescribed by the treating physician, including:
- Oral antifungals such as griseofulvin (the first choice), terbinafine, or itraconazole.
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are prescribed in severe cases to reduce the risk of permanent hair loss or scarring.
- Antifungal medicated shampoos such as selenium sulfide are prescribed for washing the scalp twice a week.
Methods for Preventing Tinea Capitis
- preventing tinea capitis and preventing its spread include washing towels and pillowcases in hot water.
- Do not share hairbrushes, towels, or personal items with others. Wash towels, bed linens, hats, and pillowcases frequently in hot water.
- It is recommended to wash your hair regularly and dry it well to prevent the spread of the fungus.
- Check your family members and pets at home to prevent the spread of the infection.
Is ringworm of the scalp serious
Ringworm of the scalp can cause several complications, including:
- Rubbing, which is a severe inflammatory reaction resulting from the immune system's response to the fungus. It appears as an inflamed, swollen, and thickened area on the scalp.
- The formation of an abscess or pustule on the scalp.
- Secondary bacterial infections such as ringworm.
- Permanent hair loss in severe cases.
Methods for Treating Alopecia
There is no definitive cure for alopecia, as the outcome of treatment depends on the immune system's response. Hair often grows back on its own. However, there are medications prescribed by doctors to reduce and control alopecia, including:
- Minoxidil, which is used for hereditary baldness and is applied topically.
- Steroid medications, which treat autoimmune diseases, are prescribed as injections into the scalp.
- Other medications can cause an allergic reaction that can cause hair growth.
Important Tips for People with Alopecia
Alopecia can be controlled by following the following tips and guidelines:
- Wearing hats to protect the scalp from the sun.
- It is recommended to let hair dry naturally instead of using a hair dryer.
- Combing hair with a soft-bristled brush.
- Avoid hair products such as dyes that contain chemicals.
- It is important to avoid stress as much as possible.
- Receive the medical tests prescribed by your doctor.
Summary of the Difference Between Ringworm and Alopecia
The main difference between them is that ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that can be transmitted from an infected person or animal and causes bald patches that are often scaly and itchy.
Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder in which white blood cells attack hair follicles, causing sudden, circular or oval hair loss.