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Tinea Versicolor

A superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia species, presenting with color changes on the trunk.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Tinea Versicolor?

Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor) is a superficial fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Malassezia species (especially M. globosa, M. furfur) that are normally present in the skin flora. It is widespread worldwide, with frequency increasing in warm climates.

Lesions typically appear as finely scaly, hypopigmented (light-colored) or hyperpigmented (dark-colored) patches on the upper trunk, shoulders, neck, and arms. The color change is associated with the azelaic acid produced by Malassezia suppressing melanocyte function.

The disease is not contagious; host factors (sweating, skin oil, humidity, heat) play an important role. Hypopigmented areas become more prominent after sun tanning.

Symptoms

Patches with color change on shoulders, trunk, and upper arm
Fine, dandruff-like scaling (positive scratch test)
Brownish lesions in fair-skinned persons, whitish lesions in dark-skinned ones
Mild or almost no itching
Lesions becoming more prominent after sun tanning
Flare-up in summer months, fading in winter
Rarely on the face, can be seen on forehead and cheeks in children

Risk Factors

Hot and humid climate
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Oily skin structure
Hormonal changes and pregnancy
Use of corticosteroids
Immune suppression
Genetic predisposition

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If lesions are widespread and persistent
  • If the color change is cosmetically bothersome
  • Recurrent summer season flare-ups
  • Cases unresponsive to topical treatment
  • If diagnosis is uncertain (differentiation from vitiligo or other lesions)

Treatment Methods

01
Topical antifungal shampoos (ketoconazole, selenium sulfide)
02
Topical antifungal creams (clotrimazole, terbinafine)
03
Oral itraconazole in widespread or recurrent cases
04
Sun protection and keeping the area dry
05
Pigment recovery after treatment may take weeks to months
06
Prophylactic shampoo use in summer (to prevent recurrence)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.