Pityriasis (Tinea) Versicolor Disease Summary

Pityriasis (Tinea) versicolor is a fungal infection caused by Malassezia furfur. It is benign, superficial, and localized to the stratum corneum.
It may present as chronic or recurrent infection and may occur in healthy individuals.
It is more common in summer than winter months.
It presents with multiple well-demarcated macules or patches and finely scaled plaques with hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, hence the term "versicolor".
Lesions are usually found on the upper trunk, chest, back and shoulders, and may extend toward the neck, face and arms.
Treatment is usually effective but may have to be repeated due to recurrence of infection in susceptible individuals.
Prophylactic treatment is recommended for patients at risk of recurrence on exposure to sunlight or warm humid conditions.
The skin discoloration may take several weeks to resolve after complete treatment. If mycology is negative, persisting pale patches do not necessarily warrant additional treatment.

For further information regarding the management of Pityriasis (Tinea) Versicolor, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.