Tinea versicolor - Pityriasis

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It is a skin infection caused by fungi. 

It most frequently affects young males and in hot countries, but can affect anyone. 

It is caused by a group of fungi of the genus Malassezia, which is commonly found on human skin. There may be a hereditary predisposition to present this type of infection, but there are also a series of factors that favor its appearance: warm and humid environment, sweating, cosmetic products, hormonal changes and a decrease in the body's defenses. 

The most frequent symptom is the appearance of "spots" on the skin. They may be tan or a more intense pink than healthy skin or discolored lesions. They appear mainly on the trunk (chest and back), armpits, neck and upper arms. 

Diagnosis is made through clinical history and a complete physical examination.

Topical and oral antifungal treatment will be used to control the infection.

Bibliographic references
  1. Beth G Goldstein. Tinea versicolor (Pityriasis versicolor). UpToDate. Junio 2016
  2. Gupta AK. Pityriasis versicolor. Dermatol Clin 2003; 21:413.
  3. Bouassida S. [Pityriasis versicolor in children: a retrospective study of 164 cases]. Ann Dermatol Venereol 1998; 125:581.
  4. Gupta AK. Pityriasis versicolor. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2002; 16:19.
  5. Leslie P. Lawley. Eccema, psoriasis, infecciones cutáneas, acné y otros trastornos cutáneos frecuentes. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 71
Author
Dr. Patricia Sánchez
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Less pigmented skin


    Excessive sweating


    Itchy skin


    Skin alteration


    Skin with dark cinnamon colored patches

Symptoms to watch out for

The spots cover large areas of the body
Lesions disappear and reappear
Persistence of symptoms for more than two weeks after initial treatment
History of immunodeficiency (HIV, Diabetes Mellitus, oncological disorders, long-term corticosteroid consumption).

Self-care

Apply over-the-counter topical antifungals.
Keep skin dry: change clothes frequently after perspiring.
Avoid excessive sun exposure.