Causative & risk factors
The yeast responsible for causing tinea versicolor is a normal inhabitant of human skin. This condition occurs when the population of this yeast increases far beyond normal levels.
Any factor that causes the skin to remain moist for long periods can predispose to tinea versicolor. Living a hot climate, sweating a lot and having oily skin are a few examples. Like all other fungal infections, having a weak immunity predisposes to tinea versicolor.
Clinical presentation
The commonly found patient profile is that of a teenager or a young adult.
The common locations of the lesions are the back, chest, neck and arms. Discolored patches are present on the affected locations. These patches may be white, pink or red in color. These patches may be dry and itch occasionally. The appearance of spots may show seasonal variation; becoming apparent in summer and disappearing in winter.
Investigations
The diagnosis of tinea versicolor can be made clinically by looking at the patches. If the diagnosis is unclear, microscopic examination of the skin scrapings can be performed.
Treatment
Anti-fungal treatment is given in the form of topical applications or oral medications.
