Tinea versicolor - pityriasis versicolor

Tinea versicolor - pityriasis versicolor

    * Introduction
    * Symptoms and Diagnosis
    * Treatment
Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor) is a superficial fungal infection, benign communities characterized by hypo or hyperpigmented macules and patches on the chest or back. In patients with chronic predisposing condition may return. Fungal infection is localized in the stratum corneum. Occurs more frequently in areas with high temperature and high humidity. Tinea versicolor is a benign skin condition that causes patches or papules on the skin. As the name suggests (pour = many), the condition can lead to skin discoloration, with colors ranging from white to red or brown. It is not considered contagious because it is a causal agent of fungal skin normally inhabited.
The skin of a person affected may be hypopigmented or hyperpigmented. If hipopigmentarii, competitive inhibitors inhibit tyrosinase enzyme necessary fungal melanin formation. In hyperpigmented forms body induces expansion of melanocytes in the basal layer of epidermis. Most cases occur in healthy persons without immune deficiencies. There are factors that predispose to the development of the condition. These factors include: genetic predisposition, warm, moist environment, immunosuppression, malnutrition and Cushing's disease. Tinea versicolor can be treated successfully by many fungal agents. Oral therapy is also effective and is preferred by patients.
Patients should be informed that the disease is caused by a fungus that normally lives on the skin and such condition is not contagious. Do not leave a permanent scar or pigmentary changes. Any change in the skin can be solved in 1-2 months after treatment. Recurrence is common and prophylactic therapy may help reduce the incidence rate.
Pathogenesis and causes pityriasis versicolor Tinea versicolor is caused by a lipophilic, dimorphic: Malasezia furfur. It is a member of normal flora of the skin and is found in 18% of 90-100% of children and adults. Factors that lead to transformation of the body in pathogen saprofitic include genetic predisposition, immunosuppression, moist environments, malnutrition, Cushing's disease. The organism is lipophilic and lipids are essential for growth. Since organismuol colonize people especially at puberty when body fat is increased tinea versicolor occurs in areas with sebum.