Tinea Flava: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Tinea flava (yellow ringworm/tinea barbae) is a fungal infection caused by Trichophyton violaceum.

Presentation

• Common in children/young adults
• Face, neck, scalp most affected
• Starts as red itchy spot → expands to ring-shaped lesion
• Center: clear/scaly; edges: raised, red

Diagnosis

Clinical exam + skin sample for lab confirmation of T. violaceum.

Treatment

• Antifungal medications (topical or oral)
• Typically 2–4 weeks

Prevention of Spread

• Frequent handwashing
• Don't share towels, razors
• Cover affected area
• Disinfect contaminated surfaces