Question 11: A child presents with multiple patchy areas of hair loss, scales, and itching. The sister also had similar lesions. What is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Alopecia areata
- B. Tinea capitis (Correct Answer)
- C. Pediculosis capitis
- D. Pyoderma
Explanation: ***Tinea capitis***
- **Tinea capitis** presents with **patchy hair loss**, **scaling**, and **itching** on the scalp, which are classic signs of a fungal infection.
- The fact that the sister also had similar lesions indicates a **contagious** condition, consistent with a **dermatophyte infection**.
*Alopecia areata*
- Characterized by **sudden, non-scarring hair loss** in circular or oval patches, often with no scaling or inflammation.
- It is an **autoimmune condition** and typically not associated with itching or contagiousness amongst siblings.
*Pediculosis capitis*
- This condition involves an **infestation of head lice**, primarily causing **intense itching** of the scalp.
- While it is contagious, it typically presents with **nits** (lice eggs) firmly attached to hair shafts and excoriations from scratching, rather than significant hair loss and scaling.
*Pyoderma*
- **Pyoderma** is a bacterial skin infection, often presenting as **pustules**, **crusts**, or **blisters** on the scalp.
- While it can be contagious and cause discomfort, it is primarily characterized by purulent lesions and not the diffuse patchy hair loss and scaling seen in this case.