Tinea versicolor, another type of common fungal infection, is found worldwide and accounts for approximately 5 percent of all fungal infections. Although it is sometimes confused with ringworm, tinea versicolor is unrelated. It is caused by an overgrowth of an organism, pityrosporon orbiculare, a normal resident of  your skin. For reasons that are unclear, infection begins when the organism converts from a docile inhabitant to an aggressive attacker.

When the rash of tinea versicolor is widespread, it can be quite noticeable, especially during the sunny summer months, because the presence of the fungus interferes with your skin’s ability to tan normally. Thus, normal tanning of the surrounding skin serves to highlight the infected spots. In fact, some people mistakenly attribute the lesions of tinea versicolor to sun exposure, referring to them as “sunspots.” Even after complete cure, it may take several months for your skin color to even out.

Tinea versicolor ordinarily involves the neck, trunk, and arms, and owes its name to the various shades of white, pink, or brown that typify its appearance. The face is seldom involved. Lesions are characteristically oval and covered with fine scales. The infection rarely causes any symptoms, and itching is infrequent.

As a rule, tinea versicolor is harmless, so people usually seek medical attention for cosmetic reasons. In many cases, the dermatologist can exclude the presence of other fungi by examining skin scrapings under the microscope. Since tinea versicolor often fluoresces an orange-gold color when exposed to a Wood’s light, this test can be especially helpful in confirming the diagnosis. In addition, a Wood’s light examination can also be helpful after treatment has been completed to ensure that the organism is no longer present. Since washing away the surface scales of the lesions can interfere with fluorescence, you should avoid washing or bathing the affected areas for twelve to twenty-four hours before a Wood’s light exam.

Tinea versicolor infection often can be readily eradicated. Your doctor may prescribe topical broad-spectrum antifungal creams, such as those used to treat ringworm infections. The repeated application of selenium sulfide shampoos or sodium thiosulfate E lotions (Exsel, Selsun) has also proven helpful. Unfortunately, infection frequently recurs in susceptible individuals. The prescription of oral Nizoral, which has been shown very effective for curing and preventing recurrences of tinea versicolor, is generally reserved for the most stubborn or widespread cases.

Excerpted from Super Skin--A Leading Dermatologist's Guide to the Latest Breakthroughs in Skin Care, by Nelson Lee Novick, M.D.

Purchase Super Skin- A Leading Dermatologist's Guide to the Latest Breakthroughs in Skin Care at Amazon or Barnes & Noble

For a consultation or appointment, call us at (212) 772-9300.