Tinea Versicolor
Tinea Versicolor (pronounced: tee-nee-uh vur-si-kul-or) is a common skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin's surface. The term "Tinea" originates from the Latin word for "worm," and "Versicolor" means "of various colors." This condition is also known as Pityriasis Versicolor.
Overview
Tinea Versicolor is characterized by small, discolored patches of skin that can appear on the back, chest, and shoulders. The patches may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin and may become more noticeable after sun exposure. The condition is not contagious and is usually harmless, but it can cause emotional distress or self-consciousness.
Causes
Tinea Versicolor is caused by the yeast Malassezia, which is naturally found on the skin. In certain conditions, such as hot, humid weather or a weakened immune system, the yeast can grow out of control and interfere with the normal pigmentation of the skin, leading to the appearance of discolored patches.
Symptoms
The main symptom of Tinea Versicolor is the appearance of small, discolored patches of skin. These patches may be pink, tan, or brown, and they may scale slightly. The patches are usually not itchy or painful.
Treatment
Treatment for Tinea Versicolor typically involves the use of antifungal medications, which can be applied topically or taken orally. Commonly used medications include Ketoconazole, Selenium Sulfide, and Terbinafine. In some cases, the skin may take several months to return to its normal color after treatment.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for Tinea Versicolor include avoiding excessive heat and humidity, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and using a medicated cleanser once or twice a month to prevent the yeast from overgrowing.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tinea Versicolor
- Wikipedia's article - Tinea Versicolor
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