PATIENT INFORMATION

Pityriasis Versicolor


What is pityriasis versicolor 

 A fungal skin infection 

 Not contagious or harmful  

 Triggers include warm/humid weather, excessive sweating 😰 

 Recurrence is common (especially in summer months) 🔄 


What are the symptoms of pityriasis versicolor 

 Rash: small pale patches/ dark patches on pale skin 

 Usually appears on back, chest, neck or upper arms but can spread 

 Affected areas do not tan (more obvious after sunbathing) 🌞 


How do you diagnose pityriasis versicolor 

 Having classical symptoms 

 Physical examination 🔍 

 Skin scrapings (if treatment fails) 


How do you treat pityriasis versicolor 

 Ketoconazole 2% shampoo 

 Selenium sulphide 2.5% shampoo (not in pregnancy) 

 Antifungal creams 


Why should I worry about pityriasis versicolor 

 None  

 

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