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Infectious disease on the scalp is mainly caused by dermatophytes,
microorganisms (e.g, bacteria, fungi, lice) that infest the skin.
The resulting disease and infection frequently cause or exacerbate
hair loss through various physiological mechanisms. These diseases
remain common even in industrialized countries mainly because they
are highly contagious. Some of the more common infectious diseases
leading to hair loss are:
| Lice |
Several kinds of insects, including lice, infest the
skin on the scalp, lay eggs and then remain, feeding on
the scalp’s blood supply. Scratching at the infestation
causes open wounds that become infected and subsequently
cause hair loss. Treatment with prescription insecticide
shampoos kills the adult lice and nits (egg cases).
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| Ringworm |
Also called “tinea capitis,” ringworm is
a fungal infection of the scalp that has nothing to do
with worms. A highly contagious disease, it is more common
in children than adults and initially presents as small,
scaly red patches on the scalp that may increase in size.
Hair in the area may break and take on a stubbly appearance.
Treatment with oral anti-fungal medications is highly
successful and occasionally combined with a ketoconazole-based
shampoo.
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| Bacterial folliculitis |
Bacterial folliculitis is a form of cicatricial
alopecia and represents a contagious bacterial infection
of the hair follicles. It is caused by Staphylococcus
or Pseudomonas infection of the hair follicle and manifests
as small white blisters surrounded by red rings; its appearance
is usually localized to exposed areas such as the arms,
legs and face. The condition responds well to treatment
with topical antibiotics and antifungals.
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| Syphilitic alopecia |
A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that can lead to hair loss occurring up to two
years after initial infection, presenting in small, patchy areas. Diagnosis is made with blood tests and
penicillin is used to treat the condition.
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Further Resources
HeadLice.org
Ringworm
(ASTDHPPHE)
Folliculitis
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