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Tinea Versicolor
Alternate Names : Pityriasis Versicolor
Definition Tinea versicolor is a chronic fungal infection of the skin.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Tinea versicolor is a relatively common skin infection caused by the fungus Pityrosporum orbiculare, a type of yeast. This fungus is considered part of the normal flora (microorganisms that normally occur) on human skin and only becomes troublesome under certain circumstances.
The most commonly affected sites are the back, underarm, upper arms, chest, and neck. The typical lesion is a flat discoloration with a sharp border and fine scales. The lesions are typically dark tan with a reddish cast.
In African Americans, pigmentary changes are common with hypopigmentation (loss of color) or hyperpigmentation (increase in skin color). Itching may be present. Tinea versicolor is more common in hot climates and is associated with increased sweating. It occurs more commonly in adolescents and young men.
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- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Neurologic Disorders
- Seizure Disorders
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• Definition
• Tinea Versicolor Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Tinea Versicolor Symptoms & Signs
• Tinea Versicolor Prevention
• Tinea Versicolor Diagnosis & Tests
• Tinea Versicolor Treatment
• Tinea Versicolor Prognosis
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Cutaneous Candidiasis
Tests & Exams
• Skin Lesion Biopsy
Other Topics
• Itching
• Patches
• Scales
• Skin - Abnormally Dark or Light
• Skin Color - Patchy
• Sweating - Excessive
Review Date : 1/11/2003
Reviewed By : Glen H. Crawford, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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