Barriers to Treatment of Tinea Capitis in Children Living in the Jane Finch Community of Toronto

Background: Tinea capitis is a common fungal infection of the scalp. If left untreated, tinea capitis infection can cause severe inflammatory reactions and the development of kerion. Tinea capitis is effectively treated with oral antifungals, but at present these are not covered under government assistance programs. Objective: To assess the potential impact of a limited use code for antifungal therapy in the treatment of childhood tinea capitis. Method: Fourteen family physicians practicing in the Jane Finch area were surveyed on their experience treating tinea capitis in this community. Results: Seventy-one percent of surveyed family physicians felt that cost impedes the treatment of tinea capitis in their practice, and 100% felt that a limited use code would have a positive impact on their patients. Conclusion: A limited use code for oral antifungal treatments of tinea capitis may provide a simple, cost-effective solution to a major problem impacting children in the Jane Finch area.