|
| Fig. 31.6 Tinea versicolor demonstrating hypopigmented scaly patches. |
Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor) is a hypopigmented, hyperpigmented, or erythematous macular eruption. Macules may coalesce into large patches with an adherent fine scale (Fig. 31-6). Lesions are located predominantly on the trunk but may extend to the extremities. The proper taxonomic nomenclature of the lipophilic yeast that produces this infection is debatable. Studies indicate
Malassezia globosa is the organism most frequently associated with tinea versicolor, although most older references list
M. furfur as the most common organism. This eruption begins during adolescence, when the sebaceous glands become active. The eruption tends to flare when the temperatures and humidity are high. Immunosuppression, systemic corticosteroids, and sweaty or greasy skin will also cause this disease to flare.
Erchiga VC, Florencio VD: Malassezia species in skin diseases,
Curr Opin Infect Dis 15:133–142, 2002.
Gupta KA, Batra R, Bluhm R, Faergemann J: Pityriasis versicolor,
Dermatol Clin 21: 413–429, 2003.
Prohic A, Ozegovic L: Malassezia species isolated from lesional and non-lesional skin in patients with pityriasis versicolor,
Mycoses 50:58–63, 2007.
