Abstract:
The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of tinea capitis among
prepubertal school children in Galle Municipal area to determine clinical types of tinea
capitis and there causative agents, and also to identify the predisposing factors of tinea
capitis among the study population. The data was collected using an interviewer
administered questionnaire and by taking a brush sample of the scalp, following scalp
examination. The brush samples were cultured for fungi according to standard laboratory
methods. The data analysis was done by using EPI 2002 statistical analysis software (CDC
). Tinea capitis is apparently not a problem in the study area. The habits of frequent
bathing and frequent application of hair oil may be unfavorable for tinea capitis infection
as well as asymptomatic carriage.
