scalp problems

my scalp is burning all the time   and it leaks a clear fluid after i scratch it    im scratching all the time i notice a film on my scalp also   what can be causing all this i am worried for my problem is getting worse what is it and what should i do

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You may be suffering from Tinea Capitis or Ringworm (fungal infection) of the scalp. Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that occurs on the face, body or scalp. The symptoms of Ringworm or Tinea Capitis include a dry itchy scalp, scaling, crusting, inflamed nodules, hair loss and tender enlarged lymph nodes on the neck.  Because of the scratching that is involved with the condition it can become secondarily infected with a bacterial infection.
The other possibility is of parasthesia skin and the fluid may be plasma due to scratching of skin.

To confirm the diagnosis, please get an evaluation done from a dermatologist.
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.

[angelina62694]

Thank you for your comment my problem is getting much worse now the scratching is real bad and there are little hard bumps on my head i cannot stop scratching and the film on scalp just keeps forming and hair will also get wet and my hair is falling out bad. i live in a little town and there isnt to many dermotologist around me especially that take medicaid would a regular family doctor be able to diagnose this problem or is it necessary to see a dermo this condition is getting worse especially after my hair gets wet the film on scalp comes off easier and sometimes it will burn a bit    thank u for your help please try to respond again soon

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
You can get the evaluation done from a general physician and if need arises, he can refer you to a dermatologist. . Diagnosis is by clinical examination of the scalp as well as a skin lesion biopsy with microscopic examination. Anti-fungal medications, topical as well as 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.