Background: Tinea capitis is the most common cutaneous fungal infection in children.

Objectives: This review aims to evaluate the differences that exist between medications for the treatment of tinea capitis, to determine whether there are any significant adverse effects associated and to define the usefulness of sample collection methods.

Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search of available papers using the databases PubMed, OVID, Cochrane Libraries and ClinicalTrials.gov. Twenty-one RCTs and 17 CTs were found.

Results: Among the different antifungal therapies (oral and combination thereof), continuous itraconazole and terbinafine had the highest mycological cure rates (79% and 81%, respectively), griseofulvin and terbinafine had the highest clinical cure rates (46% and 58%, respectively) and griseofulvin and terbinafine had the highest complete cure rate (72% and 92%, respectively). Griseofulvin more effectively treated Microsporum infections; terbinafine and itraconazole more effectively cured Trichophyton infections. Only 1.0% of children had to discontinue medication based on adverse events. T. tonsurans was the most common organism found in North America, and hairbrush collection method is the most efficient method of sample collection. Additionally, using a hairbrush, toothbrush or cotton swab to identify the infecting organism(s) is the least invasive and most efficient method of tinea capitis sample collection in children.

Conclusions: Current dosing regimens of reported drugs are effective and safe for use in tinea capitis in children.