Tinea capitis: trends in Spain

Considerable information is available on the changing incidence, etiology, clinical forms and management of tinea capitis in Spain. While the condition became epidemic during the 19th century, when it was predominantly caused by anthropophilic dermatophytes, the incidence fell with the advent of treatment with griseofulvin, after which zoophilic dermatophytes became the main etiologic agents. Although the true incidence of tinea capitis in Spain today is unknown, the condition continues to be a public health problem. Ongoing changes are evident in the greater diversity of pathogenic species identified and a renewed increase in anthropophilic dermatophytes, especially associated with immigration. Consequently, unless action is taken to correctly diagnose, treat, and prevent this infection, its prevalence may once again reach epidemic proportions in the near future.