Pityriasis%20(tinea)%20versicolor Signs and Symptoms
Definition
- A common, benign, superficial fungal infection localized to the stratum corneum
Etiology
- Caused by lipophilic yeasts, Malassezia species, part of the normal flora of the human skin
Signs and Symptoms
- May present as chronic or recurrent infection and may occur in healthy individuals
- More common in summer than winter months
- Predominates in young adults when the sebaceous glands are most active
- Presents with multiple well-demarcated macules or patches and finely scaled plaques with hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, hence the term “versicolor”
- Tends to be asymptomatic and is mainly a cosmetic concern but pruritus may or may not be present
- Usually found on the upper trunk, chest, back and shoulders, and may extend towards the neck, face and arms
- Lesions do not tan along the normal skin
Risk Factors
Risk Factors that Promote Pityriasis (Tinea) Versicolor Infection:
- High temperature and high humidity
- Prominent in tropical and subtropical regions
- Occlusive clothing
- Oily skin or application of oils to skin
- Excessive sweating
- Immunocompromised state, malnutrition and hereditary predisposition
- Oral corticosteroid intake or Cushing’s disease