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Tinea versicolor

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Tinea versicolor - close-up
Tinea versicolor - close-up
Tinea versicolor - shoulders
Tinea versicolor - shoulders
Tinea versicolor - close-up
Tinea versicolor - close-up
Tinea versicolor on the back
Tinea versicolor on the back
Tinea versicolor - back
Tinea versicolor - back

Alternative Names    Return to top

Pityriasis versicolor

Definition    Return to top

Tinea versicolor is a long-term (chronic) fungal infection of the skin.

Causes    Return to top

Tinea versicolor is relatively common. It is caused by the fungus Pityrosporum ovale, a type of yeast that is normally found on human skin. It only causes problems under certain circumstances.

The condition is most common in adolescent and young adult males. It typically occurs in hot climates.

Symptoms    Return to top

The main symptom is patches of discolored skin with sharp borders (edges) and fine scales. The patches are often dark reddish-tan in color. The most common sites are the back, underarms, upper arms, chest, and neck. Affected areas do not darken in the sun (skin may appear lighter than surrounding healthy skin)

In African Americans, there may be loss of skin color (hypopigmentation) or an increase in skin color (hyperpigmentation).

Other symptoms include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

A skin scraping that is examined under a microscope should show the yeast.

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment consists of applying antifungal medicines to the skin. These medications include clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole.

Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos applied to the skin for 10 minutes each day in the shower may also help treat the skin.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Though tinea versicolor is easily treated, pigment changes may last for months after treatment. The condition may come back during the warm months.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of tinea versicolor.

Prevention    Return to top

People with a history of tinea versicolor should try to avoid excessive heat or sweating.

References    Return to top

Kelso RL, Raimer SS. Fungal diseases of the skin. In: Rakel RE, Bope ET. Conn's Current Therapy. 60th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008: chap 211.

Update Date: 10/28/2008

Updated by: Michael Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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