Pityriasis Versicolor
Pityriasis Versicolor, also known as Tinea Versicolor, is a common superficial fungal infection caused by the yeast Malassezia. It typically affects adolescents and young adults, particularly in warm, humid climates. The condition presents with hypo- or hyperpigmented macules, often on the trunk, neck, and upper arms, which may coalesce into larger patches with fine scaling. Pale patches may be more common among patients with deeper skin pigment. The affected areas usually do not tan, leading to a characteristic contrast with the surrounding skin. Diagnosis is usually clinical, supported by a potassium hydroxide (KOH) examination or Wood’s lamp. Treatment includes topical antifungals such as selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, and clotrimazole, while oral antifungals such as fluconazole or itraconazole may be used for more extensive or recurrent cases. Recurrences are common, particularly in humid climates, and preventive treatments may be necessary. The prognosis is excellent, with most patients responding well to treatment. However, the skin discolouration may take time to resolve even after the infection is cleared, and regular prophylactic treatment might be required in cases of frequent recurrences.
References:
- Leung AK, Barankin B, Lam JM, Leong KF, Hon KL. Tinea versicolor: an updated review. Drugs Context. 2022;11:2022-9-2. doi:10.7573/dic.2022-9-2
- Kallini JR, Riaz F, Khachemoune A. Tinea versicolor in dark-skinned individuals. Int J Dermatol. 2014;53(2):137–41. doi:10.1111/ijd.12345.
- Gupta AK, Foley KA. Antifungal Treatment for Pityriasis Versicolor. J Fungi (Basel). 2015;1(1):13-29. doi:10.3390/jof1010013