What scalp disease might be present if several dry, yellow encrusted areas on the scalp are noticed with a peculiar odor before a service?

• A. Scabies
• B. Pityriasis
• C. Tinea favosa
• D. Pediculosis capitis

Answer: (C)

Recognize contagious scalp infections by their distinctive signs. Dry, yellow crusts on the scalp with a peculiar odor are characteristic of tinea favosa, a form of scalp ringworm. The crusts, called scutula, signal a fungal infection that is contagious and requires medical treatment before any styling service. Other conditions don’t present with this combination: scabies mainly causes intense itching and skin lesions; pityriasis capitis (dandruff) shows flaky scales without the waxy yellow crusts or odor; pediculosis capitis involves lice and nits rather than crusts. Because this is contagious, postpone the service, advise a medical evaluation, and follow strict infection-control practices to prevent spread.