• Pityriasis (tinea) versicolor is a common, benign, superficial fungal infection localized to the stratum corneum

• Caused by lipophilic yeasts, Malassezia species, part of the normal flora of the human skin

• 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 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