1. What That Angry, Scaly Bald Spot Most Likely Is
The round, scaly bald spot you’ve noticed on your child’s scalp is most likely tinea capitis, more commonly known as ringworm of the scalp. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by a fungal infection. Tinea capitis is characterized by patches of hair loss, which can be round or irregular, and is often accompanied by scaling and redness. The infected area might also appear swollen and may feel itchy or tender to the touch.
This condition is common among children and can vary in appearance, sometimes presenting with black dots where the hair has broken off at the scalp, or with kerion, which are boggy, pus-filled lesions. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent spreading and to manage symptoms effectively.