How Do You Spell HERPES TONSURANS?

1. Herpes tonsurans, also known as tinea circinata or ringworm of the scalp, is a contagious fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair follicles. It is caused by certain species of dermatophyte fungi, particularly Trichophyton tonsurans. The infection is characterized by circular patches on the scalp, with hair loss occurring in these areas.

   The term "herpes" in herpes tonsurans can be misleading, as it does not refer to the viral infection commonly associated with the term. Instead, it is used to describe the ring-like appearance of the lesions on the scalp, resembling the rings seen in herpes infections.

   Common symptoms of herpes tonsurans include redness, itching, scaling, and hair breakage or loss where the circular patches are present. The infection is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with infected individuals, sharing personal items such as combs or hats, or contact with contaminated surfaces.

   Diagnosis of herpes tonsurans is typically done through physical examination and microscopic examination of hair samples to identify the presence of the fungi. Treatment usually involves the use of antifungal medications, such as topical creams or oral medications, that target the fungi responsible for the infection.

   Prevention of herpes tonsurans involves practicing good hygiene, avoiding direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated items, and keeping the scalp clean and dry. Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to prevent the spread of the infection and to minimize hair loss and other complications associated with herpes tonsurans.

2. Tinea tonsurans.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for HERPES TONSURANS

The term "herpes tonsurans" is a combination of two words:

1. Herpes: The word "herpes" comes from the Greek word "herpein", meaning "to creep" or "to crawl". It was initially used to describe a snake or serpent. In medical terminology, herpes refers to a group of viral infections characterized by recurrent skin eruptions.

2. Tonsurans: Tonsurans is a Latin word derived from "tonsum", the past participle of "tondere", which means "to cut" or "to shave". It refers to a condition that causes patches of hair loss or alopecia on the scalp, typically resulting in a circular shape.

Therefore, "herpes tonsurans" refers to a fungal infection of the scalp characterized by circular areas of hair loss, which might have been associated with the creeping or crawling nature of the condition.