scalp itch and open sores

I am and have been for some time experiencing severe itching of the scalp, coupled with open sores from so much digging, I have been checked and its not lice, but dont have any idea what else it could be,. Thought it might be stree, so used scalpicin...helps for a bit and then its right back.   I am getting very discouraged here!!!  Been several months of this with no end in sight. Help!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Fungal infection of the scalp is one of the possibilities for such itchy scalp. Symptoms include a dry itchy scalp, scaling, crusting, inflamed nodules, hair loss and tender enlarged lymph nodes on the neck.  

Diagnosis is by clinical examination of the scalp as well as a skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination. Anti-fungal medications, taken by mouth, are used to treat the infection. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.