Tinea Versicolor

What is tinea versicolor?

Tinea versicolor is a common yeast infection of the skin, which should not be confused with tinea corporis (often referred to as ringworm). It is caused by growth of fungi of the genus Malassezia. These are organisms that grow on normal skin and are not dangerous. Tinea versicolor is not easily transferred from person to person and is not generally considered contagious.  

Who gets tinea versicolor?

Tinea versicolor most frequently affects young adults, although anyone can be affected. It typically presents as a flaky discolored patch during the hotter, humid months of the year. The infection may clear on its own during the winter months and then recur each spring/summer as the temperatures rise. People who perspire heavily are more likely to be affected. 

What does tinea versicolor look like?

The patches are often pink or tan and are occasionally mildly itchy. It most commonly affects the chest, back, neck and/or arms. It is rare to see it on other parts of the body. With prolonged sun exposure, the involved skin will not tan and cause the spots to appear white. It is normal for the spots to still appear white for many months after the infection has resolved.