Common Fungal Infections Affecting Children

Parents encounter various challenges trying to ensure their children’s health and well-being. While some problems are easily noticeable, others hide beneath the surface, causing discomfort and concern. Fungal infections are one of the stealthiest adversaries you may encounter when tending to your child. Fungal infections do not just cause discomfort but also create embarrassing situations for the patient.

Today, pediatricians from the Samaritana Medical Clinic – La Puente will shed light on some of the most common fungal infections in this write-up.

  1. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot)

Commonly called athlete’s foot, tinea pedis is a fungal infection of the feet. It primarily strikes the region between the toes, causing itching, redness, and peeling of the skin. Children who frequently wear tight footwear or spend too much time in damp environments, such as locker rooms or swimming pools, are more susceptible to this infection.

2.      Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor is a superficial fungal infection affecting the skin and causing patches of lighter or darker skin discoloration. Sun exposure tends to make these patches more noticeable. Despite being non-contagious, tinea versicolor can affect children physically and psychologically, particularly during warmer months when the patches appear prominent.

Samaritana Medical Clinics - South Gate, 4149 Tweedy Blvd Ste B, South Gate, CA 90280, United States, +1 800-605-0031

3.      Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)

Even with a name like this, ringworm has nothing to do with worms. It is a fungal infection, and it is often encountered by the pediatricians of Samaritana Medical Clinic – La Puente. It typically appears in the form of a red or silver rash with raised edges, forming a ring-like pattern on the skin. Ringworms can affect different parts of the body, including the scalp (tinea capitis), body (tinea corporis), and groin (tinea cruris). Direct contact with contaminated surfaces or infected people can spread the infection.

4.      Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)

Tinea capitis is yet another fungal infection affecting hair follicles and scalp. It often causes scaly patches of hair loss, usually round, with broken-off hairs. Itching and inflammation accompany this condition. Tinea capitis is more common among school students and can spread through direct contact or sharing contaminated items, such as hats or combs.

5.      Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus)

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails, typically affecting the toenails more than the fingernails. Infected nails may become thickened, discolored, and brittle. Despite being less common in children than in adults, it can still occur, particularly in people who frequently engage in activities that expose their feet to warm and moist environments, such as swimming or sports.

6.      Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

This fungal infection is caused by yeast of the Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. Mostly, it manifests in children as oral thrush, characterized by white patches on the tongue and inside the mouth, or diaper rash, causing irritation and redness. Candida albicans thrives in warm, moist environments, making infants and toddlers especially susceptible.

Treatment & Prevention

Practicing good hygiene and avoiding things that promote functional growth can prevent fungal infections in children. As parents, you need to make sure your kids are not wearing damp clothes for extended periods or sharing personal items with others. Treatment mostly involves antifungal medications, which may be applied topically or taken orally, depending on the severity of the condition.

Fungal infections may seem like minor nuisances, but they can cause a lot of discomfort and affect a child’s quality of life if left untreated. If you notice the conditions described here, take your kid to a pediatrician at the Samaritana Medical Clinic – La Puente.

Samaritana Medical Clinic - La Puente, 14282 Amar Rd, La Puente, CA 91746, United States, +1 626-917-4481