Favus

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Favus
Favus.jpg
Synonyms Tinea favosa
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Scaly, crusted lesions on the scalp, hair loss
Complications Scarring alopecia, secondary bacterial infections
Onset Usually in childhood
Duration Chronic if untreated
Types N/A
Causes Fungal infection by Trichophyton schoenleinii
Risks Poor hygiene, crowded living conditions
Diagnosis Clinical examination, Wood's lamp examination, KOH test
Differential diagnosis Seborrheic dermatitis, Psoriasis, Alopecia areata
Prevention Good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items
Treatment Antifungal medications such as Griseofulvin, Terbinafine
Medication N/A
Prognosis Good with treatment, but may result in permanent hair loss
Frequency Rare in developed countries, more common in rural areas of developing countries
Deaths N/A


Tinea favosa on the arm

Favus is a chronic infection that affects the scalp, characterized by the formation of yellow, cup-shaped crusts. It is caused by a fungus called Trichophyton schoenleinii. Favus is rare and is most commonly seen in rural areas of developing countries.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Favus is caused by a fungus called Trichophyton schoenleinii. This fungus is spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or indirectly through contact with objects such as combs, hats, and bedding that have been contaminated with the fungus.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The main symptom of favus is the formation of yellow, cup-shaped crusts on the scalp. These crusts, known as scutula, are often surrounded by a ring of red, inflamed skin. Other symptoms may include itching, hair loss, and a foul smell.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Favus is diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory tests. The doctor may take a sample of the crusts or affected hair for microscopic examination and culture. The fungus Trichophyton schoenleinii can be identified under the microscope or in culture.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for favus involves the use of antifungal medications. These may be applied topically to the affected area or taken orally. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove the affected hair.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of favus involves good personal hygiene and avoiding contact with infected individuals or animals. It is also important to avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, and bedding.

See also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD