Scalp Mycosis (Tinea capitis): Clinical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Update. A Narrative Review of the Evidence Published Between 2023 and 2026
Keywords:
tinea capitis, dermatophytosis, scalp, trichoscopyAbstract
Background: Tinea capitis is the most common dermatophytosis in children and represents a public health concern due to its high transmissibility, its potential to cause community outbreaks, and the risk of permanent scarring alopecia when the inflammatory form (kerion) is not promptly recognized and treated. Objective: To synthesize scientific evidence published between 2023 and 2026 regarding the epidemiology, emerging etiological agents, risk factors, clinical presentations, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic options for scalp mycosis. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, SciELO, LILACS, and Ibero-American dermatology journal repositories, restricted to original articles, reviews, and case series published within the last three years. Results: An etiological shift toward anthropophilic species such as Trichophyton tonsurans was identified, particularly linked to barbershop-associated outbreaks, together with a rise in adult cases, especially among postmenopausal women. Trichoscopy and real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques showed higher sensitivity than conventional culture, with markedly shorter turnaround times. Regarding treatment, oral terbinafine demonstrated greater efficacy against Trichophyton species, while griseofulvin retained superiority against Microsporum canis. Conclusions: Updated knowledge of etiological shifts and the incorporation of rapid diagnostic tools are essential to guide targeted antifungal therapy, reduce household and community transmission, and prevent scarring sequelae.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Gladys Sunilda Cano de Carmona (Autor/a)
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