Favus is a fungal infection that primarily affects the scalp. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of Favus, including its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, and available treatments.
Types of Favus:
Favus comes in two main types – dry and honeycomb. Dry favus presents as yellowish crusts on the scalp, while honeycomb favus forms a distinctive pattern resembling a beehive. Favus mainly manifests in two forms – Dry and Moist Favus. Dry Favus presents as yellowish, cup-shaped crusts on the scalp, while Moist Favus involves moist, yellow crusts and pus.
Causes of Favus:
- Poor hygiene
- Fungal infection (Trichophyton schoenleinii)
- Close contact with an infected person
- Crowded living conditions
- Weakened immune system
- Lack of proper nutrition
- Shared personal items (combs, brushes)
- Warm and humid environments
- Prolonged wet scalp
- Genetic predisposition
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Excessive sweating
- Diabetes
- Scalp injuries
- Use of contaminated hair care products
- Poor air circulation in living spaces
- Use of shared headgear
- Hormonal changes
- Overuse of antibiotics
- Stress
Symptoms of Favus:
- Yellow, crusty patches on the scalp
- Itchy scalp
- Hair loss
- Foul-smelling scalp
- Brittle and distorted hair
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Redness and inflammation
- Scalp pain
- Difficulty combing or brushing hair
- White or yellow specks on hair
- Scaling of the scalp
- Formation of honeycomb-like structures
- Pus-filled lesions
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Skin discoloration
- Oozing sores
- Secondary bacterial infections
- Cracked and bleeding skin
- Depression or anxiety due to social stigma
Diagnostic Tests for Favus:
- Microscopic examination of scalp scrapings
- Culture test to identify the specific fungus
- Wood’s lamp examination
- Skin biopsy
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test
- Blood tests to assess immune function
- Potassium hydroxide (KOH) test
- Trichoscopy (hair and scalp examination)
- Dermoscopy
- Patch testing for allergies
- Skin lesion biopsy
- Scraping for fungal elements
- Direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test
- Hair pull test
- KOH mount examination
- Gram staining
- Fungal culture on Sabouraud agar
- Immunohistochemistry
- Confocal laser scanning microscopy
- Molecular diagnostic techniques
Treatment Options for Favus:
- Antifungal medications (oral and topical)
- Medicated shampoos containing ketoconazole or ciclopirox
- Systemic antifungal therapy
- Antifungal creams and ointments
- Oral antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
- Topical corticosteroids for inflammation
- Regular washing and cleaning of the scalp
- Maintaining good personal hygiene
- Avoiding shared personal items
- Keeping the scalp dry and well-ventilated
- Oral antihistamines for itching
- Proper nutrition to boost immune system
- Stress management techniques
- Avoiding tight headgear
- Using a mild shampoo for regular hair care
- Severe cases may require hospitalization
- Photodynamic therapy
- Laser therapy for fungal eradication
- Immunotherapy
- Cryotherapy
- UV light therapy
- Herbal remedies (tea tree oil, aloe vera)
- Scalp massages for improved blood circulation
- Application of antifungal powders
- Use of medicated hair oils
- Avoiding excessive heat styling
- Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider
- Education on preventive measures
- Support groups for mental health
- Consultation with a dermatologist for specialized care
Drugs for Favus Treatment:
- Griseofulvin
- Terbinafine
- Itraconazole
- Fluconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Ciclopirox
- Clotrimazole
- Miconazole
- Econazole
- Tolnaftate
- Selenium sulfide
- Coal tar
- Salicylic acid
- Hydrocortisone
- Betamethasone
- Clobetasol
- Neomycin
- Gentamicin
- Mupirocin
- Bacitracin
Conclusion:
Understanding Favus involves recognizing its types, causes, symptoms, and the available diagnostic and treatment options. Maintaining good hygiene, seeking prompt medical attention, and adhering to prescribed treatments are crucial in managing and preventing the recurrence of Favus. If you suspect you have Favus, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, always seek the advice of a medical professional before trying any treatments to ensure to find the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this page or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.