The distribution of mycoses (fungi) is worldwide, but it is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions where it can reach up to 32% of superficial mycoses; it is also very frequent in the summer months, and in hot-humid climates.
In this time of heat, and above all of sweat, it can be a favourable space for the activation of fungi. One of them is the cause of pityriasis versicolor or tinea versicolor.
This is an infectious but not contagious disease, it belongs to the Malassezia genus, a group of fungi that form part of the skin itself, both in animals and humans, and is the cause of dandruff and the infectious disease we are talking about.
Why does this fungus appear?
- There are several predisposing factors that cause it:
- Season of the year (more frequent in the hot summer months).
- Tropical climate (more frequent and with more extensive lesions (30-40% of adults).
- Additional use of body oils (cosmetic products)
- Hyperhidrosis (humidity)
- Oily skin
- People with immunosuppression
How does it manifest itself?
Small irregular brownish patches with fine desquamation appear on the neck, trunk and proximal areas of the extremities. They may be round or oval and may converge to cover large areas of the body surface.
After exposure to the sun in summer, these spots may become more visible and turn white (hypopigmented), although both types of lesions may coexist in the same patient (dark and light).
In some cases the lesions may cause slight itching, but in most cases they are asymptomatic and are only a cosmetic problem.
It is important to diagnose the disease, as it is a curable disease, but because the organism responsible belongs to the human body’s own flora it can become recurrent and even spread.
How do we treat it?
Pityriasis versicolor is treated with topical antifungals, and oral treatment in more extensive cases.
It is important to know that the lighter patches may persist for some time after the end of treatment (several months), without it being necessary to start treatment again. Therefore, the sooner it is treated, the better.
