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Definition Tinea versicolor is a fungus infection that mainly affects the skin of young people. If anyone has oily skin, warm enough and moist enough, it starts to grow into small "colonies" on the surface of the skin. It is characterized by lighter or darker patches on the skin. It is neither a permanent nor a serious infection. Tinea versicolor mainly affects skin on the chest and back. It affects only the top layer of the skin. It is a non-contagious disease. Causes Tinea versicolor is caused by yeast which is a type of fungus. This fungus is present everywhere in the environment, including on the surface of your skin. Tinea versicolor occurs when the fungus becomes overgrown. A number of factors may trigger this growth, including: Hot, humid weather Excessive sweating Oily skin Hormonal changes Cushing's disease Pregnancy Malnutrition Removal of the adrenal gland Burns Steroid therapy Suppressed immune system Oral contraceptives Symptoms Symptoms of tinea versicolor are a rash of small circular or oval spots that may eventually form patches. The spots are flat and may be white, pink, red, tan, or brown. Itching, especially when you are hot. However, itching isn't always present. Other common characteristics of the rash include : - Infection only on the top layers of the skin The rash usually occurs on the trunk The rash does not usually occur on the face Patches worsen in the heat, humidity, or if your child is on steroid therapy or has a weakened immune system. Treatment Antifungal pills may be taken in a single dose or once a day for 5 to 10 days. Because the medication comes to the surface of your skin through sweat, you'll get the best results if it is not washed off too soon. These medications include clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole. Scrapings of the skin may be sent to the laboratory to check for the fungus. More simply, shining an ultraviolet light onto the rash will make the patches fluoresce a yellow green colour (this is known as a Wood's Light test). The skin may not regain its normal pigmentation for many months after the infection is gone. Tinea versicolor commonly comes back after successful treatment because the fungus that causes it normally lives on the skin. Therefore, many doctors recommend use shampoo monthly or every other month to prevent recurrences.
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Alien writes for Woman health . He also writes for family health and you might be interested in vitamins and minerals information.
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