What is Tinea versicolor?

Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus known as Malassezia, which is normally found on the skin's surface. This condition leads to the development of discolored patches on the skin, which can vary in color from light to dark and typically occur on the trunk, shoulders, and upper arms. The patches may become more prominent with sun exposure, as the affected skin does not tan in the same way as the surrounding healthy skin.

Understanding the nature of Tinea versicolor highlights its classification as a fungal infection rather than a viral, bacterial, or autoimmune condition. The distinct appearance of the skin lesions and their cause differentiates them from symptoms associated with viral infections like fever blisters, which generally present as grouped vesicles caused by the herpes simplex virus. Bacterial infections and autoimmune disorders also manifest in different ways, not typically exhibiting the characteristic discolored patches associated with Tinea versicolor. Thus, recognizing Tinea versicolor as a fungal infection is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.