THE RAPID DIAGNOSIS OF TINEA-CAPITIS USING CALCOFLUOR WHITE

The clinical presentation of tinea capitis may be varied and confusing . This results in delays in diagnosis, loss to follow-up, and spread o f the infection. This article describes the use of calcofluor white (C FW) as a method for rapid diagnosis of tinea capitis. One hundred chil dren with scaling scalps were evaluated. Specimens were obtained for f ungal culture from each patient. Scales and hair were tested using the CFW test. The CFW test was positive in 58 (76%) of those with positiv e fungal cultures and 10 (42%) with negative fungal cultures. The sens itivity and specificity of the test were 76 and 58%, respectively. The relative ease and rapidity of the CFW test allows for rapid diagnosis of tinea capitis, immediate treatment of patients, and decreased loss to follow-up.