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