Final answer:
Tinea favosa, also known as favus, is the scalp disease that may be present if dry, yellow, encrusted areas with a peculiar odor are observed on the scalp. It requires medical attention and treatment with antifungal medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
If there are several dry, yellow, encrusted areas on the scalp with a peculiar odor, the scalp disease present may be tinea favosa, also known as favus. Favus is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by a fungal infection, typically from Trichophyton schoenleinii. It is characterized by yellowish crusts and scales on the scalp, accompanied by a peculiar musty odor. This condition is distinct from other types of tinea infections such as tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp), tinea corporis (ringworm of the body), tinea pedis (athlete's foot), and tinea cruris (jock itch), which might present differently on other parts of the body.
It is important to note that this condition needs medical attention and treatment usually involves antifungal medications. Additionally, one should be cautious not to confuse this with other scalp conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or scabies, which have different symptoms and treatments. Tinea favosa can have serious consequences if left untreated, including permanent hair loss and scarring.