pityriasis%20(tinea)%20versicolor
PITYRIASIS (TINEA) VERSICOLOR
Treatment Guideline Chart
Pityriasis (Tinea) versicolor is a fungal infection caused by Malassezia furfur. It is benign, superficial, and localized to the stratum corneum.
It may present as chronic or recurrent infection and may occur in healthy individuals.
It is more common in summer than winter months.
It presents with multiple well-demarcated macules or patches and finely scaled plaques with hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, hence the term "versicolor".
Lesions are usually found on the upper trunk, chest, back and shoulders, and may extend toward the neck, face and arms.

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
Editor's Recommendations
Special Reports