Tinea Versicolor- Fungus Which Causes Salmon Colored Skin Patches
Tinea versicolor is also sometimes referred to as pityriasis versicolor. It is a common fungal infection of the skin. Unlike other fungi, tinea versicolor has the ability to somehow interfere with the skin pigmented cells and cause large discolored patches on the chest or back. Even though the discoloration may appear alarming, the condition is very easily treated. However, despite successful treatment, tinea versicolor may return especially when one is exposed to warm humid weather. Tinea versicolor is some how acquired from the environment. Why some people get it and others do not is not known. Once the fungus is acquired it lays dormant until the individual is exposed to warm moist environments. The typically symptoms of Tinea Versicolor include: – Appearance of small scaly patches of discolored skin on the back or chest- The patches slowly start to grow in a fake tan n irregular manner- The patches often become more noticeable after sun exposure- A few individuals complain of an itch The majority of individuals who acquire Tinea versicolor develop a large pink salmon colored patch, but the color can very from white to dark brown.Tinea versicolor affects all races and both genders. The infection is typically most common on the back, neck, chest and upper arms. For some unknown reason, the fungus is usually seen in the adult population, and rare in children. How tinea versicolor is actually derived remains a mystery- some researchers believe that the fungus is already present on the skin and is activated in certain environments. The triggers which can activate the fungus include the following: – Warm humid weather. Tinea versicolor often becomes visible while on vacation to a tropical country where the weather is hot and humid.