Tinea Versicolor- Fungal Skin Infection

Tinea versicolor is also known as Pityriasis versicolor. It is a common fungal infection of the skin. The classic presentation is small areas of light skin patches in the middle of normal skin. For some unknown reason, the fungus causes hypopigmentation of the skin. This fungal infection is usually seen just after returning from a vacation where the weather was hot and humid.

The condition is most common in adults and both genders are equally affected. The rash can appear in children but is rare.

Symptoms

The skin infection by the fungus causes patches of depigmented skin, and sometimes these patches increase in size. Frequently these skin patches are of different colors ranging in white to pink and dark grey. The patches are most noticeable during the summer months, when the skin tans reveal the white spots on the skin. Sometimes the depigmented skin will also have a very fine powder coating.

The skin infection is most common on the back and upper chest but may also occur on the neck and upper arms.

Unlike other skin fungus infections, tinea versicolor causes only a mild itch.

The tinea versicolor is a normal resident of the skin and lives near the opening of the hair follicles. When the fungus starts to grow, it somehow alters the pigmentation of the surrounding skin.

Factors which cause growth of this fungus include:

- hot and humid conditions

- profuse sweating

- oily and greasy skin

- individuals who are immunosuppressed

- individuals who use corticosteroids for long periods

- excess use of warm and moist tanning booth

When the skin rash fails to disappear after basic skin care, a visit to the physician may help. The condition is easily recognized.

The condition can be easily treated with creams, shampoos and antifungal medications. However, it does have a tendency to recur and the skin may remain depigmented for several weeks or months.