TINEA VERSICOLOR – Causes and Risk Factors, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnostic Evaluations, Management and Prevention
Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection of the topmost layer of the skin causing scaly, discolored patches. Tinea versicolor is a long-term (chronic) fungal infection of the skin. It’s also called pityriasis versicolor and is caused by a type of yeast that naturally lives on skin. The fungus interferes with the normal pigmentation of the skin, resulting in small, discolored patches. When the yeast grows out of control, the skin disease, which appears as a rash, is the result.
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
It is caused by a type of yeast fungus called Pityrosporum ovale. This fungus is normally found on human skin. Tinea versicolor is not spread from one person to another. A number of factors may trigger this growth, including:
- Hot, humid weather
- Excessive sweating
- Oily skin
- Hormonal changes
- Weakened immune system
- Certain medicines, such as steroids or birth control pills
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
Tinea versicolor is a type of infection that appears as a tissue-thin coating of fungus on skin. The infection causes patches of discolored skin that may be:
- Colored white, pink, tan or dark brown
- Slow-growing, scaly and mildly itchy
- More noticeable after sun exposure
- Located on the back, chest, neck and upper arms
- Increased sweating and itching
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATIONS
Doctors can often diagnose tinea versicolor by its appearance. Doctors may use an ultraviolet light to show the infection more clearly and usually examine scrapings from the infected area under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
MANAGEMENT
Antifungal creams applied directly to affected areas (topical), such as ketoconazole orterbinafine cream, may be used, as well as terbinafine solution spray. Prescription strength selenium sulfide lotion is effective if applied to the affected areas (including the scalp) for 10 minutes a day for 2 weeks. Prescription ketoconazole shampoo is also effective. It is applied and washed off in 5 minutes. It is used as a single application or daily for 3 days. Other treatments include applying topical ketoconazole daily for 2 weeks and bathing with zinc pyrithione soap or sulfur-salicyclic shampoo for 1 to 2 weeks.
Antifungal drugs taken by mouth, such as ketoconazole or fluconazole, are sometimes used to treat a widespread infection. Some people prefer the convenience of a drug taken by mouth. However, because these drugs may cause unwanted side effects and because tinea versicolor is a mild infection, topical drugs are usually preferred.
To lower the chance of recurrence, many doctors recommend practicing meticulous hygiene and using zinc pyrithione soap regularly or one of the other topical treatments monthly.
PREVENTION
Tinea versicolor usually comes back, especially in hot and humid times of the year. You can manage the symptoms and help prevent it.
- Keep your skin clean and dry
- Do not share clothes or towels
- Clean showers, baths, and mats with disinfectant (cleaner that kills germs)
- Wash clothes and towels in hot water.
TINEA VERSICOLOR – Causes and Risk Factors, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnostic Evaluations, Management and Prevention