|
|
|
This is a typical kerion in tinea capitis. For unknown reasons, tinea capitis is much more prevalent in the United States in African American children than in children of other races. Fifteen percent of African Americans who visited an outpatient clinic for non-dermatological reasons were found to be infected in a recent study. Diagnosis is usually not difficult when an inflamed kerion in present. Although pustules are present and a culture may show bacteria, it is not necessary to treat with antibiotics. Griseofulvin (15-25mg/kg/day) is still the drug of choice for this fungal infection and treatment is needed for 4 to 8 weeks. Occasionally a kerion will be very boggy and tender and a short course of oral cortical steroids, 1-2 mg/kilo for 5 days, helps to improve the pain and swelling.