Pityriasis versicolor is a skin infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast, resulting in a rash on the neck, upper arms, and chest. It is more common in warmer climates and can be treated with antifungal medications. Recurrence is possible, but the condition is not dangerous.
Pityriasis versicolor, also known as tinea versicolor, is a type of skin infection caused by a yeast known as Pityrosporum orbiculare. Typically, a rash appears on the neck, upper arms, and chest. At first, the rash consists of small patches that are different in color from the rest of the skin. The patches may become itchy and scaly and may grow, merge, or spread to the thighs and abdomen. A number of antifungal medications are available to treat the condition and other names by which it is known include dermatomycosis furfuracea and tinea flava.
Pityrosporum orbiculare is found on most people’s skin, where it usually doesn’t cause problems. An overgrowth of yeast leads to Pityriasis versicolor, and this most frequently occurs in association with increased sweating and sebum production. For this reason Pityriasis versicolor is more common in warmer climates and in the summer months. Those most frequently affected by the condition include teenagers and people whose immune systems are affected by medications or diseases such as AIDS. Although it is a common disease, it is not possible to get Pityriasis versicolor from another person.
Diagnosing Pityriasis versicolor involves distinguishing the condition from other fungal diseases with similar symptoms. A doctor may request scrapings of the affected skin to be examined under a microscope, to see if the yeast Pityrosporum orbiculare is present. In another test, infected areas of skin are viewed using a special light known as Wood’s light, which causes the Pityrosporum orbiculare to glow green or yellow.
The first treatment option for Pityriasis versicolor is usually the application of an antifungal cream or lotion. Often this can take the form of a selenium sulfide or ketoconazole shampoo, which is applied to wet skin for ten minutes each day, for a total of ten days. There are other methods of applying these shampoos and a doctor will be able to recommend the most suitable course of treatment for an individual patient. Antifungal creams are sometimes used, but are less effective at covering large areas of skin.
If pityriasis versicolor persists, a doctor might recommend a course of antifungal tablets. After successful treatment, any pale spots on your skin may take several months to fade. In some people, the infection tends to come back repeatedly and they may need to take regular medications to protect themselves from recurrence. Fortunately, pityriasis versicolor isn’t dangerous, but a rash of pale patches can look unsightly on darker skin.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
