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Tinea versicolor
Definition Tinea versicolor is a chronic fungal infection of the skin. Alternative Names Pityriasis versicolor Causes, incidence, and risk factors Tinea versicolor is a relatively common skin infection caused by the fungus Pityrosporum ovale, a type of yeast which is normally found on human skin. It only causes problems under certain circumstances. The most commonly sites are the back, underarms, upper arms, chest, and neck. The condition is most common in adolescent and young adult males and is associated with hot climates. In African Americans, pigmentary changes are common with hypopigmentation (loss of color) or hyperpigmentation (increase in skin color). Symptoms The main symptom is persistent patches of discolored skin with sharp borders (edges) and fine scales. The patches are often dark reddish-tan in color. Affected areas do not darken in the sun (skin may appear lighter than surrounding healthy skin) Other symptoms include: - Increased sweating
- Itching
Signs and tests A skin scraping and subsequent examination under a microscope should show the yeast. Treatment Treatment consists of anti-fungal medicines applied 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 lesions. Expectations (prognosis) Though tinea versicolor is easily treated, pigment changes may last for months after treatment. The condition may come back during the warm months. Calling your health care provider Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of tinea versicolor. Prevention People with a history of tinea versicolor should try to avoid excessive heat or sweating. Review date: 10/23/2006 Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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