Kerion Celsi and erythaema nodosum in childhood

Abstract

Kerion Celsi is a markedly inflammatory presentation of tinea capitis, usually caused by Microsporum and Trichophyton infections. Rapid introduction of aggressive systemic antifungal therapy is pivotal in the treatment. Erythema nodosum is a hypersensitivity reaction characterized by red, tender, nodular lesions usually on the pretibial surfaces; the most common etiologic causes in childhood are infections. Erythema nodosum is an “id” or dermatophytid reaction in kerion Celsi; the hypersensitivity reaction is the consequence of vast amount of fungal antigens. There are only a few case reports in the literature on the common occurrence of kerion Celsi and erythema nodosum in children, the authors find their case worthy of presentation because of this rare constellation.