Successful Treatment of Tinea Capitis Caused by Microsporum canis Using Griseofulvin

Abstract

Tinea capitis is a scalp and hair follicle dermatophyte infection caused by Trichophyton sp. and Microsporum sp. that more commonly affect children than adults. Microsporum canis is the most common dermatophyte causing tinea capitis reported in Asia that respond well to griseofulvin. We report one case of an 8-year-old child with a history of patchy scaling lesion on the head, alopecia, and pruritus. Dermatological examination revealed multiple scaly erythematous macules, circular shape, sharply marginated, with a diameter of 2?6 cm, along with alopecia in each lesion. KOH preparation, wood lamp examination, trichoscopy, and fungal culture were performed. The diagnosis of tinea capitis grey patch type with an etiology of Microsporum canis was established. The patient was significantly improved clinically and mycologically with four weeks course of oral griseofulvin and adjuvant treatment using ketoconazole 2% scalp solution. Griseofulvin is effective to treat tinea capitis caused by Microsporum sp. Comprehensive examination in tinea capitis is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and the etiology as well to determine the best treatment for the case