Elongated Corkscrew Hairs as a Possible Novel Trichoscopic Sign in Endothrix Tinea Capitis Affecting Adults with Immunosuppression.

INTRODUCTION

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp in which trichoscopy plays an important role by allowing early identification of characteristic hair shaft alterations before mycological confirmation.

METHODS

We describe two adult women who are immunosuppressed with endothrix tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton violaceum.

RESULTS

Both patients presented with diffuse scalp alopecia and scaling. Trichoscopic examination revealed unusually elongated corkscrew hairs, and fungal cultures confirmed the diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Elongated corkscrew hairs represent a previously unreported trichoscopic pattern in chronic endothrix tinea capitis. Awareness of this finding may facilitate earlier diagnostic suspicion and prompt targeted mycological investigation in patients who are immunosuppressed.