Pityriasis versicolor: description
Unlike other fungal diseases, pityriasis versicolor is not contagious – even in direct contact with diseased persons.
Pityriasis versicolor: symptoms
- The fungal carpet does not allow sun rays (UV light) to penetrate to the underlying skin, which prevents the formation of the skin pigment melanin. In addition, toxins of the fungus inhibit melanin synthesis in the skin. Thus, light spots (hypopigmentation) appear on dark or tanned skin. This manifestation of the fungal lichen is called pityriasis versicolor alba.
Fine, bran-shaped skin flakes can detach from the affected areas. The German name of the disease “Kleienpilzflechte” refers to them.
The skin spots of the Kleienpilzflechte appear mainly at sebaceous gland-rich skin places at the body trunk, thus usually on the chest and on the back. Other areas such as shoulders, arms and neck may also be affected. Sometimes a slight itching occurs.
Pityriasis versicolor: Causes and risk factors.
Pityriasis versicolor is caused by certain yeasts, especially Malassezia furfur, Malassezia globosa and Malassezia sympodialis. These fungi are present in all healthy people to some extent and, together with other microorganisms, form the normal skin flora.
Heavy sweating (hyperhidrosis) and increased sebum production by the skin (seborrhea) also promote fungal growth. Other risk factors for pityriasis versicolor include, for example, the frequent use of creams containing fatty substances and a weakened immune system – for example, due to medication or underlying diseases such as HIV.
Pityriasis versicolor: examinations and diagnosis
- Have you been on vacation recently and if so, where?
- Are there any known skin diseases in your family?
- Have you ever had such skin conditions in the past?
The medical history is followed by a physical examination. The doctor examines the skin changes and strokes over them with a spatula. In the process, the bran-like flakes that are typical of pityriasis versicolor may come off.
In addition, the doctor can examine the skin changes with special light, the so-called Wood light. Skin areas on which fungi are present fluoresce a yellowish-green color.
Pityriasis versicolor: Treatment
Pityriasis versicolor is not dangerous and is therefore less of a medical problem and more of a cosmetic (aesthetic) problem.
In very pronounced cases of the disease, when the local antifungal drugs do not lead to success, a one-week systemic treatment of Kleienpilchte can be carried out: For example, tablets containing itraconazole or fluconazole are prescribed.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as people with liver or kidney problems, must not take antifungal tablets.
Pityriasis versicolor: course of the disease and prognosis
Pityriasis versicolor can generally be treated well. However, it may take several months for the whitish skin patches to re-pigment.
It should be noted that the risk of recurrence of pityriasis versicolor is high. Affected persons are therefore often advised to use antifungal shampoos regularly as a preventive measure. Further tips for prevention:
- shower or bathe frequently using syndets (artificial washing substances that are gentle on the skin)
- always dry yourself well after showering or bathing
These measures are also advisable in case of an existing infection with pityriasis versicolor.
