Hypopigmented skin lesions on the face are a common cause of cosmetic discomfort to patients. Tinea versicolor (also called Pityriasis versicolor) is a superficial fungal infection caused by the dimorophic fungus Malassezia. ââ¬ÅVersicolorââ¬Â refers to the variation in skin pigmentation observed in this disorder. The lesions tend to occur in areas rich in sebaceous glands including the face and upper body. They can be hypo, hyperpigmentated or mildly erythematous. Characteristically patients notice it as the skin fails to tan on exposure to sunlight. Treatment is usually with topical antifungals (2% ketoconazole for 2 weeks, ketoconazole shampoo applied to affected area, selenium sulfide 2.5% lotion or shampoo for one week, terbinafine ointment twice daily for one week). Systemic treatment is reserved for widespread infection, recurrent infection or non response to topical antifungals. Fluconazole (300 mg once weekly for two weeks), Itraconazole (400 mg single dose) can be used. The patient had been on Ketoconazole ointment already for prior Tinea. Hence, he was prescribed Terbinafine topical ointment for 2 weeks. Hypopigmented Pruritic Facial Rash?What is your Diagnosis?: Subhankar Chakraborty
Last date updated on September, 2024