Pityriasis versicolor

The main symptom is patches of discolored skin with sharp borders (edges) and fine scales. The patches are often dark reddish-tan in color. The most common sites are the back, underarms, upper arms, chest, and neck. Affected areas do not darken in the sun (skin may appear lighter than surrounding healthy skin)

In African Americans, there may be loss of skin color (hypopigmentation) or an increase in skin color (hyperpigmentation).

Other symptoms include:

• Increased sweating
• Itching

A skin scraping that is examined under a microscope should show the yeast.

Images

Tinea versicolor on the back

Tinea versicolor - shoulders

Tinea versicolor - back

Tinea versicolor - close-up

Tinea versicolor - close-up

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Tinea versicolor Overview

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Tinea versicolor Treatment

Review Date: 10/10/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)