Clinical Presentation and Risk Factors of Tinea Capitis in Children up to 15 Years Old in Major Referral Hospitals, Sana'a City, Yemen, 2024
Year: 2026
Type: other
Abstract: Background: Tinea capitis is an important superficial infection that affects children globally, known as scalp ringworm; it is a dermatophyte infection of the scalp predominantly affecting prepubertal children and caused by dermatophytic fungi. It accounts for up to 92.5% of dermatophytosis in children under 15 years. The prevalence and clinical characteristics of tinea capitis among children in Yemen remain largely unexplored. Objective: To assess the clinical presentation and risk factors, and confirm the diagnosis by KOH skin scraping of tinea capitis in children attending dermatological clinics in Sana’a City, Yemen, in 2024. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over three months, from March 1st to May 30th, 2024. Data were collected from 82 children under 15 years old attending dermatological clinics. Structured questionnaire was used to gather information on demographic characteristics, clinical features, symptoms, and risk factors. Results: The majority of participants were male (67%) and had a mean age of (9.13+4.30) years. Most children resided in urban areas (78.05%). Conclusion and Recommendation: Tinea capitis constitutes a significant public health issue among children in Sana’a City, Yemen. Targeted public health interventions focusing on hygiene practices are crucial.
Authors: Mutaia Abuarij, Ahlam AL-Siadi
Language: English
Topic: Nail Diseases and Treatments
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7214979871