Fungal infection in beard or scalp
Fungal infection of the scalp usually affects children under 10 years old, although more rarely it may affect older children and adults. The medical terms are tinea capitis where the scalp is infection, tinea barbaris for infection in the beard or moustache. It can cause itching and patchy hair loss, with ring-shaped areas of redness and flakiness.
Yellow crusts may form if left untreated, and this may cause hair to become matted. Hair loss is usually temporary until it's treated, but the appearance can cause distress, and the scalp can feel very itchy and a bit sore, if left untreated.
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Is it contagious?
It is contagious with long periods of close contact, for example, with siblings/ It can contaminate hairbrushes and combs, towels, clothes and even headrests and pillowcases. Family members may be treated alongside to reduce the chance of re-infection.
Some people may carry the infection and pass it on without suffering obvious symptoms themselves. Your dog or cat may be a possible carrier, where the vet will be able to treat them, and worth knowing that it can survive weeks to months on shared household items or furniture.
When should I see my doctor?
If you think you have a fungal infection, or if you've tried the above treatments and they've not helped, you should book a routine appointment with your doctor.
It's a good idea to take family members to the appointment in case they need treatment, too, or your doctor may suggest all the family are treated, as some people can pass the fungal infection on without getting any symptoms themselves.
You should see your doctor urgently if you have a large swollen patch with loss of hair - it will feel sore and soft and may discharge pus. This could be a kerion, an inflammation or abscess caused by a fungal infection that requires specialist treatment.
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