tinea capitis

tinea cap·i·tis (kp-ts)

n.

A fungal infection of the scalp, characterized by patches of apparent baldness, scaling, black dots, and occasionally erythema and pyoderma.

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tinea capitis Fungal scalp infection, tinea of scalp Dermatology A dermatophytosis, primarily of the pediatric scalp; it can be persistent and contagious, but often disappears spontaneously at puberty; the fungi of TC thrive in warm, moist areas, aided by poor hygiene, minor skin or scalp injuries; passed by direct contact with combs, hats, clothing, fomites or pets.