An open study of tinea capitis in 50 children treated with a 2-week course of oral terbinafine

Background: Terbinafine is used in the treatment of dermatophyte infections. There have been several studies suggesting a good response to terbinafine in treating tinea capitis, specifically with dermatophytes of the Trichophyton species. Methods: We enrolled 50 consecutive children with a clinical diagnosis of tinea capitis into an open study using terbinafine for 2 weeks. Results: Clinical and mycologic cure occurred in more than 86% of patients with no side effects and good compliance. Conclusion: In this study terbinafine was a safe and effective treatment of tinea capitis in children, particularly when caused by the Trichophyton species.