Tinea favosa is also known as which condition?

• A. Dandruff
• B. Honeycomb fungus of the scalp
• C. Ringworm
• D. Psoriasis

Answer: (B)

Tinea favosa is a form of fungal infection of the scalp that forms distinctive yellow crusts called scutula, which coalesce into a pattern that looks like a honeycomb. That honeycomb appearance is why it’s nicknamed the honeycomb fungus of the scalp. It’s a specific type of tinea capitis caused by dermatophyte fungi, historically Trichophyton schoenleinii, and can lead to hair breakage or scarring if not treated.

Dandruff is just flaky scalp without the characteristic honeycomb crusts; ringworm is a general term for fungal skin infections and doesn’t specify this crusted pattern; psoriasis presents as red, scaly patches and is not fungal. So the name that fits Tinea favosa best is the honeycomb fungus of the scalp.