Evaluation of Impact of Tinea Capitis on Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients Using Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index and Its Correlation with Disease Duration

Introduction: The superficial fungal infection of the scalp caused by dermatophytes is called tinea capitis. It has a predilection for the pediatric age group. In developing countries like India factors such as overcrowding, inadequate hygiene, and low literacy rate contribute to its high incidence.

Aims and objective: This study aimed at identifying and grading the psychosocial impact of tinea capitis in children and correlating it with disease duration and socioeconomic status of patient's family.

Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in our skin outpatient department involving children aged 6-16 years with clinical diagnosis of tinea capitis. We used the children's dermatology life quality index (CDLQI) instrument to observe the psychological implications in these children.

Results: The study included 134 patients, with a mean CDLQI score of 6.01 ± 4.17. There was a male preponderance in our study with 112 (68.3%) male patients and 52 (31.7%) female patients. The age group affected most commonly was 6-8 years (37.8%). The domains affected most severely were symptoms and feelings (Q1 and Q2) followed by sleep (Q 9). The psychological implications were higher in patients suffering from kerion, older children, and female patients. There was a statistically significant correlation between the impact on quality of life (QOL) and disease duration as well as disease severity; however, no correlation could be made between QOL and socioeconomic strata of family.

Conclusion: The study brings into question the overlooked psychological implications of tinea capitis which are often overlooked by the dermatologist and parents as a mere dermatological disease. Instead a holistic approach including a complete psychological evaluation of children and appropriate counseling of both patients and their parents must be done.