Kerion is a pus-filled bump caused by ringworm of the scalp, which can lead to permanent hair loss and scarring. It is diagnosed through tests and treated with oral antifungal medication and corticosteroids. Good personal hygiene practices are essential for recovery.
Kerion is an infectious condition caused by ringworm of the scalp. It is a raised, pus-filled bump that typically forms on the scalp, although it can also form in the beard area. It comes from a fungal infection of those hair follicles. The underlying condition, ringworm of the scalp, can occur in anyone of any age or ethnicity, but children are most frequently diagnosed with kerion. With appropriate tests, a confirmed diagnosis of kerion can be made and appropriate treatments prescribed.
Ringworm of the scalp, also known as tinea capitis, is a fungus that belongs to the mold family and thrives in warm, moist areas. Individuals with poor hygiene habits or who have superficial abrasions on the scalp or near hair follicles are at higher risk of developing ringworm of the scalp. Highly contagious, these infections are caused by fungi called dermatophytes and are transmitted through close contact with contaminated individuals, animals or inanimate objects such as pillows, clothes and brushes. Symptoms associated with ringworm of the scalp include itchy, scaly, inflamed lesions, and the development of black or dark-colored dots on the scalp.
Classified as a complication of ringworm of the scalp, kerion is hypothesized to develop as an allergic reaction or an exaggerated immunological response to the presence of tinea capitis infection. Kerion manifests itself as raised, pus-filled, inflamed sores on the scalp that are soggy to the touch. These sores can rupture and drain, and if left untreated, can lead to permanent hair loss and scarring of the affected area. Raised lymph nodes at the base of the scalp, behind the neck, and behind the ears may indicate the presence of kerion.
A confirmed diagnosis of kerion can be made by appearance alone, but tests are often preferred to confirm ringworm of the scalp and rule out any secondary conditions. Tests may include skin scrapings in the affected area, a fungal culture, or a bacterial culture. A test called a Wood’s lamp uses ultraviolet light to identify the presence of certain dermatophytes known to cause ringworm of the scalp.
Treatment options include using oral antifungal medications and corticosteroids to control inflammation. Topical medications are generally not used as the fungi reside deep in the skin where topical creams cannot penetrate. Medicated shampoo is used to prevent the spread of infection and is effective when used as directed. In most cases, treatment regimens last six to eight weeks to relieve symptoms and clear both the kerion and the underlying infection.
The overall prognosis for individuals with kerion is good if adequate medical care is sought and conscientious personal hygiene practices are followed. There are no effective home or folk remedies for either ringworm of the scalp or kerion. Cases of ringworm of the scalp may be persistent, but its concentration eases with each recurrence before finally subsiding at the onset of puberty.
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