Pityriasis Versicolor Flashcards
What is pityriasis versicolor?
A superficial fungal infection of the stratum corneum leading to hypo- or hyperpigmented macular lesions on seborrhoeic areas of the trunk
What cause pityriasis versicolor?
Proliferation of the lipophilic fungus of the genus Malassezia
Where is Malasezzia fungus usually found?
In the flora of the skin
What parts of the body is Malasezzia normally found as a floral organism?
Sparsely in seborrhoeic areas (scalp, face and chest)
When does Malassezia change from a harmless commensal to a pathological organism?
When it changes to its mycelial form
What are the risk factors for pityriasis versicolor?
- Teenagers and young adults
- Hyperhidrosis or increased physical activity
- Occlusive clothes, dressings or ointments
- Immunosuppression or immune deficiency
- Malnutrition
Describe the onset of pityriasis versicolor?
Insidious and can take several months to be noticed
How to pityriasis versicolor lesions appear?
Macular lesions and patches of altered pigmentation with superficial scale
Where do pityriasis versicolor appear and spread to?
Often start on the trunk and then spread to the neck, upper arms and abdomen
Is itching a feature of pityriasis versicolor?
Only mildly if at all
How does the pityriasis versicolor rash change as it resolves?
Can change from scaly and brown to non-scaly and white
Is pityriasis versicolor contagious?
No
What are the differentials for pityriasis versicolor?
- Vitiligo
- Tinea corporis
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Guttate psoriasis
- Discoid eczema
How should pityriasis versicolor be managed initially?
Topical anti-fungals e.g. clotrimazole, ketoconazole
In what forms are anti-fungal treatments for pityriasis versicolor available?
Creams or shampoos
