Abstract:
Tinea capitis is the most common dermatophyte infection of the scalp affecting
mainly children and rarely adults. It is closely related to the socio-economic and hygienic
conditions typical of the lower strata of rural and urban population. Aims: The study was
undertaken to delineate clinical and mycological profile of tinea capitis among children
residing in orphanages and compare the sensitivity and specificity of KOH microscopy and
culture. Materials and methods: A total of 218 children residing in orphanages were included
in this cross sectional study. Results: Among the 218 children screened, 51 (23.3%) showed the
clinical evidence of tinea capitis. Grey patch was the commonest clinical type (54.9%). Direct
microscopic examination was positive in 68.62% cases. Dermatophytes were isolated in
43.13% cases and Trichophyton rubrum was the commonest species (50%) isolated.
Conclusions: The results of this study reveal that tinea capitis is very common in children with a
low socioeconomic profile (low standard of living, poor hygiene, overcrowded living
