ABSTRACT

Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial chronic fungal disease characterized by lesions varying in color from red to hypopigmentation to hyperpigmentation. The areas usually involved are the upper trunk, neck, or upper arms, although lesions may be found elsewhere on the skin, with the exception of soles and palms. Lesions may be papular, nummular, or confluent and are slightly scaly. Besides the main complaint of cosmetic disfigurement, about one-third of patients also have slight to moderately severe itching. The lipophilic yeast Pityrosporum ovale is seen microscopically in scales from lesions (1).