Alopecia and Crusted Scalp in a Young Boy

A 5-year-old boy with alopecia and a crusted scalp was diagnosed with a kerion, a severe form of tinea capitis. Initial treatment with terbinafine, cephalexin, and ketoconazole shampoo led to partial improvement. A fungal culture identified Trichophyton violaceum, leading to a switch to oral griseofulvin. After six weeks, there was significant improvement, with near-complete resolution of symptoms and substantial hair regrowth, though two small alopecia patches remained. The treatment plan included continuing griseofulvin and ketoconazole shampoo until mycological clearance. Early recognition and treatment are essential to prevent permanent alopecia and its psychosocial effects.