scalp ringworm

I go to college and i have got a bold patch so i went to the pharmacy and they gave me a an anit antfungal cream and some shampoo but its like it just made it worse because now puss is coming out of it and i can't ihat  go college anymore because it is so bad.

what do you think it is? and how long do you think it will take to go?


This discussion is related to Round Rash.

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin.To catch ringworm, you have to be exposed to it and you have to be susceptible. Some people are much more susceptible than others. Those with eczema or other skin problems get ringworm more easily because the protective barrier of the skin's outer layer is less intact.Some people are genetically predisposed and can get it easily throughout life.
It begins as a dry, raised, round patch, which may be slightly red. The patch may also be somewhat itchy.
Ringworm is often diagnosed by the history and physical examination (and rapid response to treatment).
The treatment for ringworm is one of the many effective topical antifungal creams, such as miconazole or clotrimazole. Several of these antifungal creams are now available without a prescription. Treatment may require several weeks.
Scalp ringworm is a major cause of hair loss, and should be treated aggressively.
Avoiding exposure is the best way to prevent ringworm. Because these fungi thrive best on skin that is moist, hot, and hidden from the light, dressing to keep the skin cool, dry, and light can also help prevent this infection.
The treatment should be continued for two to four weeks to eliminate all of the fungus
ref:http://www.drgreene.com/21_1172.html.

[Dr Santos]

Hi weswes! How are you?

Scalp ring worm or tinea capitis is a very common fungal infection.  Contact alone with fungal carriers may not be enough to cause an infection. However, coupled with minor trauma to the scalp, such as scratches or tight braiding, spores can enter the skin, invade and digest the tissue's keratin ( a type of protein) as the organisms grow. The typical signs of scalp ringworm infection are reddening, crusting, scaling of the scalp and intense itching usually occurs. Sometimes, scalp ringworm can heal without treatment.  In your case, it is infected already with the presence of the pus.  It is strongly recommended to visit your doctor for proper evaluation of the lesion and management.  

For the infection to be completely cured, the hair needs to grow out. With average hair growth, this process could take weeks to months. Therefore, continuing to take all the medications prescribed by your doctor for the entire course of treatment is important.

I hope this helps. Take care and keep me posted