Pityriasis versicolor
Pityriasis versicolor is an infection with bran lichen . This is a harmless fungal disease that occurs superficially on the skin and is caused by a yeast (Malassezia furfur). Although this disease is harmless, it often poses an aesthetic problem for those affected.
What is pityriasis versicolor?
The term pityriasis versicolor describes an infection of the skin with the fungus Malasseuia furfur. Circular spots appear on the skin, which have a different pigmentation. They are lighter or darker than the rest of the skin. However , the skin can be itchy . Scratching causes the skin to flake.
The reservoir for these pathogens of bran ringworm is the hairy scalp. However, this is not infected. With the right medication, pityriasis versicolor can be treated efficiently. The skin then returns to its original color over time after the pityriasis versicolor has been successfully treated.
causes
Pityriasis versicolor is caused by infection with the fungus Malassezia furfur. This yeast is a pathological form of the yeasts Pityrosporon orbiculare and Pityrosporon ovale, which are present on the skin of all humans. The yeast fungus multiplies more in a warm, humid environment. It has not yet been finally clarified why there is a sudden outbreak of bran lichen.However, some risk factors exist, which include a humid climate, profuse sweating, excessive production of talc and lotions containing fatty acids. Furthermore, some underlying diseases and a weakened immune system can lead to an outbreak. Some medications, such as birth control pills and some antibiotics , can also provoke pityriasis versicolor. The skin discolorations accompanying pityriasis versicolor occur when the distribution and formation of the skin pigment melanin are disrupted.
symptoms and course
Typical symptoms of pityriasis versicolor are circular spots on the skin that are pigmented differently. Some of these are darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. In addition, there is usually itching and scaling of the skin. The spots appear particularly on the chest and back, since there are more sebaceous and sweat glands there. This superficial change in the skin is not painful and harmless. The diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor usually takes a very good course because it can be treated effectively with medication. The symptoms of pityriasis versicolor disappear after a short time and the color of the skin returns.
Diagnose
In the case of pityriasis versicolor, a visual diagnosis is often sufficient. However, some diseases show a comparable appearance. Therefore, the diagnosis can be confirmed by a clinical analysis. To do this, the doctor roughens the skin with a small spatula and then makes a demolition preparation of the affected areas.
A microscopic examination can determine whether it is the causative agent of pityriasis versicolor. Furthermore, the diagnostic method with the so-called Wood light is available. This lamp mainly emits ultraviolet rays, which can be used to identify different species of fungi based on fluorescence.
treatment and therapy
To treat pityriasis versicolor, an antifungal agent that is used externally is a good idea. This is available in the form of a washing emulsion, a cream or a shampoo. Since the hairy head is the reservoir for the pathogen, it should be included in the treatment. The duration of therapy is at least two weeks. An additional treatment option are home remedies such as vinegar water or whey.If no success is achieved with the external treatment, the medication is used internally. Antifungal drugs come in tablet form. They have active ingredients such as fluconazole, ketoconazole and otraconazole. The effectiveness of these supplements can be increased by exercising one hour after taking the medication. Through the sweat, the active ingredient can reach the affected areas of the skin better. Furthermore, the affected areas should be protected from sunlight. There is a chance that pityriasis versicolor will come back despite successful treatment.
prevention
Pityriasis versicolor can only be prevented to a limited extent. The skin should always be kept clean and dry. A mild washing lotion is recommended for cleaning. Loose fitting clothing is recommended in warm climates. If the laundry cannot be washed at high temperatures, it should be disinfected with special products. Despite these measures, pityriasis versicolor can occur.
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.