Kerion, an often missed scalp lesion: A case report

ABSTRACT

Kerion is an abscess caused by a fungal infection, commonly occurring on the scalp among children and rarely in adults. This report illustrates the case of a 12-year-old boy who presented with multiple plaques with crusty lesions on the scalp for 2 months, associated with purulent discharge and boggy swelling, initially misdiagnosed as seborrheic dermatitis. Following unsuccessful treatment, his condition was correctly diagnosed as kerion based on clinical appearance, history of contact with domestic animals and Wood’s lamp examination findings. The diagnosis was delayed for 2 months, leading to a prolonged disease course. Complete resolution of symptoms and lesions was achieved with systemic antifungal treatment, although permanent scarring alopecia remained. The delay in diagnosis and treatment led to prolonged illness and alopecia.