Oklahoma Cosmetology Board Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of tinea capitis?

1. Itching and redness

2. Hair loss or patches on the scalp

3. Dryness and flaking

4. Swelling and blisters

The correct answer is: Hair loss or patches on the scalp

A common symptom of tinea capitis, which is a fungal infection of the scalp, is indeed hair loss or patches on the scalp. This condition is characterized by the presence of circular, bald patches where the hair has fallen out due to the infection. The fungus disrupts the normal hair growth process, leading to these noticeable areas. While other symptoms, such as itching and redness, may also occur, the most distinctive feature that sets tinea capitis apart is the patchy hair loss, which can often appear in various sizes. Additionally, dryness and flaking might be observed, but they are not specifically indicative of tinea capitis. Swelling and blisters could occur in more severe cases, but these are not common symptoms specifically associated with this fungal infection. Understanding the hallmark symptoms aids in the effective identification and management of tinea capitis in a clinical setting.