Which statement best describes tinea capitis?

• A. Erythema multiforme-type lesions on scalp
• B. Hair breakage without alopecia
• C. Scaly patches with alopecia and associated LAD; Hair can be broken down to the base. Tx: Oral griseofulvin or terbafine
• D. Vesicular lesions on palms and soles

Answer: (C)

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp where dermatophytes invade the hair shaft and follicles. It typically presents as scaly patches on the scalp with hair loss (alopecia) and hairs that break off at the base, often accompanied by tender regional lymphadenopathy. Because the fungus is inside the hair shaft and follicles, treatment must be systemic rather than just topical; oral antifungals are needed to reach the infected structures. Griseofulvin has been a classic choice, with terbinafine also commonly used depending on the organism.

The other descriptions don’t fit this condition: erythema multiforme–type lesions on the scalp suggest an immune-mediated reaction rather than a fungal infection; hair breakage without alopecia points to noninflammatory hair shaft fragility; vesicular lesions on palms and soles are characteristic of dermatophyte infections of the feet or hands rather than the scalp.