Causes

• Fungus of the scalp is usually caused by the trichophyton fungus, which infects the hair of the scalp, causing it to break. According to the University of Michigan Health System, animals infected with the fungus cause less than 10 percent of cases.
  
  

Features

• The fungus usually causes scaly, pink, itchy patches of skin that produce hair loss. Allergic reaction to the fungus can cause the patches of skin to become swollen and ooze pus.
  
  

Identification

• A doctor can identify the fungus through physical examination. A skin sample may be analyzed to verify the diagnosis.
  
  

Treatment

• A doctor can prescribe antifungal medication. Antifungal shampoo is also recommended to prevent spread and reccurrence. Additional oil and ointments should not be used on the scalp during treatment, as they can make the fungus more contagious.
  
  

Prevention

• Avoid sharing combs, barrettes, caps, or anything else that has come into contact with the scalp of an infected person. Pets with bald spots should be examined for the fungus, since they can spread it.