An eleven year old boy is having tinea capitis on his scalp. The most appropriate line of treatment is –
**Core Concept**
Tinea capitis, also known as ringworm of the scalp, is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes that invade and digest the keratin in hair, skin, and nails. Effective treatment requires antifungal agents that penetrate the hair shaft and target the causative organisms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Oral griseofulvin therapy is the most appropriate line of treatment for tinea capitis. Griseofulvin, a member of the allylamine class, is a keratinophilic antifungal agent that binds to keratin and prevents fungal invasion. It is lipophilic, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft and reach the site of infection, making it effective against dermatophyte infections. Griseofulvin is typically administered orally for a duration of 2-3 months to ensure complete resolution of the infection.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Topical griseofulvin therapy is not sufficient to treat tinea capitis as the antifungal agent cannot penetrate the hair shaft effectively.
**Option C:** Shaving of the scalp is a cosmetic measure that does not address the underlying fungal infection.
**Option D:** Selenium sulphide shampoo is an antifungal agent, but it is not as effective as oral griseofulvin therapy in treating tinea capitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to note that oral griseofulvin therapy should be used in conjunction with keratolytic shampoos to help remove infected hairs and promote new hair growth.
**Correct Answer:**
✓ Correct Answer: A. Oral griseofulvin therapy