How do yeast infections manifest in different parts of the body. What are the most common symptoms of vaginal, oral, and skin yeast infections. Which factors increase the risk of developing a yeast infection. What are the most effective treatments for various types of yeast infections.

Understanding Yeast Infections: Causes and Risk Factors

Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, occur when fungi, particularly those from the Candida species, grow excessively in the body. These infections commonly develop in moist areas with limited exposure, such as the mouth, vagina, or feet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies Candida albicans as the most prevalent type of fungi responsible for causing yeast infections.

Several factors can disrupt the body’s natural balance and lead to the overgrowth of Candida fungi:

• Antibiotic use
• Hormonal contraceptives containing estrogen
• Pregnancy
• Weakened immune system
• Certain medications (e.g., steroids, immunosuppressants, chemotherapy)
• Diabetes
• Use of vaginal douches and sprays

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures and seek timely treatment when necessary.

Vaginal Yeast Infections: Symptoms and Appearance

Vaginal yeast infections are remarkably common, with up to 75% of females experiencing at least one diagnosed infection in their lifetime. But how can you identify a vaginal yeast infection?

The most distinctive sign of a vaginal yeast infection is the presence of white discharge with a texture resembling cottage cheese. However, this is not the only symptom to watch for. Other indicators include:

• Painful urination
• Soreness around the vagina
• Inflammation and itchiness of the vagina and vulva
• Pain during sexual intercourse

While these symptoms can be distressing, it’s important to note that yeast infections are treatable and not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, sexual activity can sometimes contribute to their development or spread.

Yeast Infections in Men: Penile Candidiasis

Although less common, yeast infections can affect men as well. Penile yeast infections typically manifest on the underside of the penis and may present the following symptoms:

• Scaling of the skin
• Inflamed patches
• Painful rash

In some cases, the infection can lead to balanitis, causing inflammation near the head of the penis. Symptoms of balanitis may include:

• Burning or itching sensation
• Yellow or white discharge
• Inflammation spreading to the shaft and area under the foreskin

It’s worth noting that approximately 15% of males who engage in unprotected sexual intercourse with females experiencing yeast infections may develop the infection themselves.

Oral Thrush: Yeast Infections in the Mouth and Throat

Oral thrush occurs when yeast grows excessively in the mouth or throat. This condition is particularly common in individuals with weakened immune systems, those wearing dentures, smokers, and people with dry mouth. What are the telltale signs of oral thrush?

The most characteristic symptom is the appearance of white patches on the tongue, cheeks, back of the throat, or roof of the mouth. Additional symptoms may include:

• Soreness and pain while eating or drinking
• A cotton-like feeling in the mouth
• Cracked skin at the corners of the mouth
• Loss of taste

If you suspect you have oral thrush, it’s crucial to seek medical attention, especially if you have a compromised immune system or other underlying health conditions.

Skin Yeast Infections: Varied Appearances and Locations

Yeast infections can occur on various parts of the skin, often manifesting as patches of inflammation. These patches can differ in shape and size, and may be accompanied by itching, flaking, or crusting. In some cases, pustules might appear around the edges of the affected areas.

Where are skin yeast infections most likely to develop? Common locations include:

• Under the breasts
• In the armpits
• In the groin area
• Under or between the buttocks
• In the navel
• On the scalp
• Between fingers and toes

Scalp yeast infections can be particularly troublesome, potentially causing crusty lesions that may lead to hair loss. In infants, yeast infections can manifest as diaper rash, requiring prompt attention and treatment.

Nail Yeast Infections: Symptoms and Complications

Yeast infections can also affect the nails, leading to various symptoms and potential complications. How can you identify a nail yeast infection?

An infected nail may turn white or yellow and begin to separate from the nail bed. Other symptoms may include:

• Painful swelling around the nail
• Presence of pus
• Partial or complete nail loss

If left untreated, nail yeast infections can become chronic and may spread to other nails or surrounding skin. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these complications.

Treatment Options for Yeast Infections

The treatment for yeast infections varies depending on the location and severity of the infection. For mild, occasional infections, over-the-counter options may be sufficient. These can include:

• Topical antifungal creams
• Oral antifungal medications
• Nail treatments
• Medicated mouthwashes (for oral thrush)

For more severe or recurrent infections, prescription-strength medications may be necessary. These could include stronger topical creams, oral antifungals, or even intravenous treatments in severe cases.

It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes and home remedies can help manage yeast infections and prevent their recurrence:

1. Maintain good hygiene practices
2. Wear breathable, cotton underwear
3. Avoid douching and scented feminine products
4. Manage blood sugar levels if diabetic
5. Boost immune system through diet and exercise
6. Reduce stress levels
7. Consider probiotic supplements or foods

While these measures can be helpful, they should not replace medical treatment, especially for severe or recurring infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Yeast Infections

While many yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. When should you consult a healthcare provider for a yeast infection?

• If it’s your first suspected yeast infection
• If symptoms persist after over-the-counter treatment
• If you experience recurrent infections (four or more in a year)
• If you’re pregnant
• If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system
• If you develop a fever or other severe symptoms

A healthcare provider can perform tests to confirm the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment. They can also rule out other conditions that may mimic yeast infection symptoms, such as certain sexually transmitted infections or bacterial vaginosis.

Diagnostic Methods for Yeast Infections

To diagnose a yeast infection, healthcare providers may use various methods:

• Physical examination
• Microscopic examination of a sample
• Culture of the affected area
• Blood tests (in case of systemic infections)

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, especially in cases where symptoms may be similar to other conditions.

Prevention Strategies for Yeast Infections

While it’s not always possible to prevent yeast infections entirely, certain strategies can help reduce the risk of developing them. What are some effective prevention methods for yeast infections?

1. Maintain good personal hygiene
2. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and synthetic materials
3. Change out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly
4. Use unscented soaps and avoid douching
5. Practice safe sex and use condoms
6. Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
7. Take probiotics, especially when on antibiotics
8. Limit sugar intake in your diet
9. Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing yeast infections.

The Role of Diet in Yeast Infection Prevention

Diet can play a crucial role in preventing yeast infections. Some dietary recommendations include:

• Reducing sugar and refined carbohydrate intake
• Consuming probiotic-rich foods (e.g., yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)
• Eating foods with antifungal properties (e.g., garlic, coconut oil)
• Staying hydrated
• Including prebiotic foods to support beneficial gut bacteria

While dietary changes alone may not prevent all yeast infections, they can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce the frequency of infections.

The Impact of Yeast Infections on Quality of Life

Yeast infections, while generally not severe, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. How do these infections affect daily living and well-being?

• Physical discomfort and pain
• Disruption of sexual activity
• Emotional stress and anxiety
• Interference with work or social activities
• Sleep disturbances due to symptoms
• Potential impact on self-esteem and body image

Understanding these impacts underscores the importance of prompt treatment and effective prevention strategies. It’s crucial for individuals experiencing recurrent yeast infections to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive management plan.

Psychological Effects of Recurrent Yeast Infections

For some individuals, especially those with recurrent infections, the psychological impact can be significant. This may include:

• Feelings of frustration or helplessness
• Anxiety about future infections
• Impact on intimate relationships
• Depression related to chronic symptoms

Addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive care for individuals with recurrent yeast infections.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Yeast Infection Management

The field of yeast infection research is continually evolving, with new studies exploring innovative treatment and prevention strategies. What are some promising areas of research in yeast infection management?

• Development of new antifungal medications
• Exploration of probiotic therapies
• Investigation of natural antifungal compounds
• Research into the role of the microbiome in yeast infection susceptibility
• Studies on immunotherapies for recurrent infections

These emerging areas of research hold potential for improving the prevention and treatment of yeast infections in the future. As our understanding of these infections grows, so too does our ability to manage them effectively.

The Promise of Personalized Medicine in Yeast Infection Treatment

Personalized medicine approaches are gaining traction in various areas of healthcare, including the management of yeast infections. This approach takes into account individual factors such as:

• Genetic susceptibility to infections
• Individual microbiome composition
• Specific Candida strains present
• Underlying health conditions

By tailoring treatments to individual patients, personalized medicine holds promise for improving outcomes and reducing recurrence rates in yeast infections.

What does a yeast infection look like? Examples and treatments

The appearance of a yeast infection, or candidiasis, depends on its location. It can cause white patches in the mouth, flaking or crusting of the skin, and changes in genital discharge, which may look like cottage cheese.

In this article, we describe how a yeast infection visibly affects the body. We also look at other symptoms, treatments, and more.

A yeast infection occurs when fungi grow excessively in the body. This is particularly common in moist areas with less exposure, such as the mouth, vagina, or feet.

Often, yeast infections are caused by fungi from the Candida species — and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Candida albicans is the type most likely to overgrow and cause an infection.

A vaginal yeast infection, or thrush, typically causes white discharge that is the texture of cottage cheese.

Other symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

• painful urination
• soreness around the vagina
• inflammation and itchiness of the vagina and vulva
• pain during sex

These infections are common, with up to 75% of females having at least one diagnosed in their lifetimes.

Yeast infections can affect the penis, but this is less common. The symptoms tend to develop on the underside of the penis and include:

• scaling
• inflamed patches of skin
• a painful rash

A yeast infection can also cause inflammation near the head of the penis. This issue is called balanitis.

A person with balanitis may experience burning or itching and yellow or white discharge. In some people, the inflammation spreads to the shaft and the area under the foreskin.

Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, it is possible for a person to develop a yeast infection after having oral, anal, or vaginal sex with someone who has the condition, especially if they are especially susceptible.

Around 15% of males who have unprotected sex with females experiencing yeast infections develop the infection themselves.

Oral thrush occurs when yeast grows excessively in the mouth or throat. Typically, a person develops white patches on the tongue, cheeks, back of the throat, or roof of the mouth.

Other symptoms of oral thrush include:

• soreness
• pain while eating or drinking
• a cotton-like feeling in the mouth
• cracked skin at the corners of the mouth
• a loss of taste

Most healthy adults do not develop oral thrush, but yeast infections in the mouth or esophagus are common in people with weakened immune systems.

Wearing dentures, smoking, and having dry mouth also elevate the risk of developing oral thrush.

The appearance of a yeast infection on the skin depends on the location, but this type of infection often causes patches of inflammation. These can vary in shape and size.

Sometimes, these patches itch, flake, or develop crusts, and pustules may appear around the edges.

A yeast infection can occur anywhere on the skin, but is most likely to develop in folds, such as:

• under the breasts
• under the arms
• in the groin
• under or in the buttocks
• in the navel
• on the scalp
• between the fingers and toes

If a yeast infection occurs on the scalp, it can cause crusty lesions that can lead to hair loss. Yeast infections can also cause diaper rash in babies.

Yeast infections can develop beneath the nails. An infected nail may turn white or yellow and start to separate from the nail bed.

When a yeast infection occurs under the nails, a person may experience:

• painful swelling
• pus
• nail loss

In small amounts, Candida fungi are not harmful. Many people have yeast on their skin and in their body. Other types of microbe, such as bacteria, help keep Candida from growing excessively.

However, certain factors can disrupt the body’s ability to keep Candida under control, such as:

• Antibiotics: Because antibiotics kill bacteria, the result may be that Candida fungi grow unchecked.
• Hormonal contraceptives: People who take hormonal birth control that contains estrogen are more likely to develop yeast infections.
• Pregnancy: Similarly, the hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the chances of developing yeast infections.
• A weak immune system: Young babies and people with immune disorders or conditions such as HIV may be more susceptible to yeast infections.
• Medications: Some medications and treatments, including steroids, immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy also weaken the immune system.
• Diabetes: Sugar helps yeast grow, so if a person frequently has high blood sugar levels, they are more likely to develop candidiasis.

Vaginal douches and sprays may also increase the risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection.

The treatment for a yeast infection varies, depending on the infection’s location and severity.

For mild, occasional infections, a person can try over-the-counter options, such as topical creams, nail treatments, or vaginal suppositories.

However, it is important to speak with a pharmacist or doctor first, because the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are similar to those of bacterial vaginosis and some STIs.

These issues do not respond to yeast infection treatments. They require different approaches and can cause serious health complications if a person does not receive the necessary care.

Also, frequently using antifungal medicine unnecessarily may reduce how effective it is in the future.

For more severe or reoccurring infections, a person may need prescription antifungal medication.

Pregnant women should not take the antifungal medicine fluconazole (Diflucan), as it may cause birth defects, the Office on Women’s Health report.

Some home care strategies may help reduce yeast infection symptoms or prevent the issue from coming back.

Probiotic yogurt may help reduce the amount of yeast in the body. A 2013 pilot study involving 24 women showed that eating 8 ounces of probiotic yogurt per day reduced the presence of Candida in some cases.

However, this was a small study with mixed results. Also, the women had HIV, so their health responses may not reflect those of the general population.

Addressing the cause of the infection is important, especially if the infection keeps coming back. A person may benefit from:

• using a condom during sex
• avoiding the overuse of antibiotics
• switching to a different method of birth control
• better managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes

A person should talk to a doctor if they notice symptoms of a yeast infection.

It is important to receive the right treatment for any infection, and correctly identifying the type of infection is the first step.

Yeast infections often cause changes to genital discharge and patches to form in the mouth or in skin folds.

A doctor can confirm the infection and recommend the best treatment, depending on the severity and the part of the body involved.

What does a yeast infection look like? Examples and treatments

The appearance of a yeast infection, or candidiasis, depends on its location. It can cause white patches in the mouth, flaking or crusting of the skin, and changes in genital discharge, which may look like cottage cheese.

In this article, we describe how a yeast infection visibly affects the body. We also look at other symptoms, treatments, and more.

A yeast infection occurs when fungi grow excessively in the body. This is particularly common in moist areas with less exposure, such as the mouth, vagina, or feet.

Often, yeast infections are caused by fungi from the Candida species — and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Candida albicans is the type most likely to overgrow and cause an infection.

A vaginal yeast infection, or thrush, typically causes white discharge that is the texture of cottage cheese.

Other symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

• painful urination
• soreness around the vagina
• inflammation and itchiness of the vagina and vulva
• pain during sex

These infections are common, with up to 75% of females having at least one diagnosed in their lifetimes.

Yeast infections can affect the penis, but this is less common. The symptoms tend to develop on the underside of the penis and include:

• scaling
• inflamed patches of skin
• a painful rash

A yeast infection can also cause inflammation near the head of the penis. This issue is called balanitis.

A person with balanitis may experience burning or itching and yellow or white discharge. In some people, the inflammation spreads to the shaft and the area under the foreskin.

Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, it is possible for a person to develop a yeast infection after having oral, anal, or vaginal sex with someone who has the condition, especially if they are especially susceptible.

Around 15% of males who have unprotected sex with females experiencing yeast infections develop the infection themselves.

Oral thrush occurs when yeast grows excessively in the mouth or throat. Typically, a person develops white patches on the tongue, cheeks, back of the throat, or roof of the mouth.

Other symptoms of oral thrush include:

• soreness
• pain while eating or drinking
• a cotton-like feeling in the mouth
• cracked skin at the corners of the mouth
• a loss of taste

Most healthy adults do not develop oral thrush, but yeast infections in the mouth or esophagus are common in people with weakened immune systems.

Wearing dentures, smoking, and having dry mouth also elevate the risk of developing oral thrush.

The appearance of a yeast infection on the skin depends on the location, but this type of infection often causes patches of inflammation. These can vary in shape and size.

Sometimes, these patches itch, flake, or develop crusts, and pustules may appear around the edges.

A yeast infection can occur anywhere on the skin, but is most likely to develop in folds, such as:

• under the breasts
• under the arms
• in the groin
• under or in the buttocks
• in the navel
• on the scalp
• between the fingers and toes

If a yeast infection occurs on the scalp, it can cause crusty lesions that can lead to hair loss. Yeast infections can also cause diaper rash in babies.

Yeast infections can develop beneath the nails. An infected nail may turn white or yellow and start to separate from the nail bed.

When a yeast infection occurs under the nails, a person may experience:

• painful swelling
• pus
• nail loss

In small amounts, Candida fungi are not harmful. Many people have yeast on their skin and in their body. Other types of microbe, such as bacteria, help keep Candida from growing excessively.

However, certain factors can disrupt the body’s ability to keep Candida under control, such as:

• Antibiotics: Because antibiotics kill bacteria, the result may be that Candida fungi grow unchecked.
• Hormonal contraceptives: People who take hormonal birth control that contains estrogen are more likely to develop yeast infections.
• Pregnancy: Similarly, the hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the chances of developing yeast infections.
• A weak immune system: Young babies and people with immune disorders or conditions such as HIV may be more susceptible to yeast infections.
• Medications: Some medications and treatments, including steroids, immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy also weaken the immune system.
• Diabetes: Sugar helps yeast grow, so if a person frequently has high blood sugar levels, they are more likely to develop candidiasis.

Vaginal douches and sprays may also increase the risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection.

The treatment for a yeast infection varies, depending on the infection’s location and severity.

For mild, occasional infections, a person can try over-the-counter options, such as topical creams, nail treatments, or vaginal suppositories.

However, it is important to speak with a pharmacist or doctor first, because the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are similar to those of bacterial vaginosis and some STIs.

These issues do not respond to yeast infection treatments. They require different approaches and can cause serious health complications if a person does not receive the necessary care.

Also, frequently using antifungal medicine unnecessarily may reduce how effective it is in the future.

For more severe or reoccurring infections, a person may need prescription antifungal medication.

Pregnant women should not take the antifungal medicine fluconazole (Diflucan), as it may cause birth defects, the Office on Women’s Health report.

Some home care strategies may help reduce yeast infection symptoms or prevent the issue from coming back.

Probiotic yogurt may help reduce the amount of yeast in the body. A 2013 pilot study involving 24 women showed that eating 8 ounces of probiotic yogurt per day reduced the presence of Candida in some cases.

However, this was a small study with mixed results. Also, the women had HIV, so their health responses may not reflect those of the general population.

Addressing the cause of the infection is important, especially if the infection keeps coming back. A person may benefit from:

• using a condom during sex
• avoiding the overuse of antibiotics
• switching to a different method of birth control
• better managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes

A person should talk to a doctor if they notice symptoms of a yeast infection.

It is important to receive the right treatment for any infection, and correctly identifying the type of infection is the first step.

Yeast infections often cause changes to genital discharge and patches to form in the mouth or in skin folds.

A doctor can confirm the infection and recommend the best treatment, depending on the severity and the part of the body involved.

Malassezia (fungus) in cats – symptoms and treatment of yeast fungus in cats in Moscow. Veterinary clinic “Zoostatus”

Causes of dermatitis
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Doctor’s recommendations

Malassezia pachydermatis is a fungus in cats that lives on the skin of all healthy animals and is conditionally pat genic microflora. That is, under normal conditions, Malassezia does not harm the animal, coexisting with other microflora, but when conditions favorable for the reproduction of the fungus arise, it can begin to grow actively, affecting the skin, causing itching and an unpleasant odor. Under normal conditions, it is not active on a healthy animal.

Malassezia loves heat and humidity, so the following areas of the cat’s body most often suffer from it:

• external auditory canal,
• skin folds on the abdomen, in the armpits, inguinal fold,
• interdigital space,
• cavity of paraanal glands.

Malassezia is impossible to catch, as it is normally found on the skin of any healthy cat, so the cause of fungal dermatitis is in the causes that cause excessive, pathogenic reproduction of the fungus. A signal for its reproduction may be a decrease in the protective properties of the cat’s skin under the influence of various factors – allergies, reduced immunity, flea and tick bites, constant exposure to a humid environment (usually this is typical for stray cats living in basements during the cold season) and so on.

Fungus-affected areas of the skin in cats usually have a brownish-red tint and a specific unpleasant odor. In addition, the animal may begin to actively lick itchy places, which leads to the appearance of plaques on the skin, wounds, erythema (redness), scratching, as bacterial microflora joins the fungal infection on the skin.

To make a diagnosis of Malassezia dermatitis in a cat, a dermatologist carefully examines the animal and takes a cytology from the skin – prints from problem areas using adhesive tape. The microflora collected on the tape is being examined under a microscope, with the help of which it is already possible to say for sure whether the cat has a fungus on the skin, to assess their number and the presence of a secondary bacterial infection.

It must be remembered that the presence of a fungus in cats is always secondary, fungal dermatitis develops against the background of other pathologies, therefore, during the diagnosis, it is necessary to identify the primary cause that caused the pathological reproduction of the fungus.

Most often, the development of Malassezion dermatitis occurs against the background of various allergies in cats. To diagnose allergies, preventive treatments are carried out against ectoparasites (fleas), and an elimination (elimination) diet is prescribed. Allergy to flea saliva is the most common type of allergy, for hypersensitivity to occur, it is not necessary that the animal be densely populated with fleas – it is enough that fleas live behind baseboards or in ventilation, and bite only occasionally. Unfortunately, they are found even in new houses and renovated apartments. Food allergies are much rarer and can only be detected in cats with an elimination diet. If allergy to saliva of ectoparasites and food allergy are not confirmed, and all other possible causes of itching are excluded, atopic allergy (that is, an allergy to any component of the external environment – dust, pollen, and so on) can be diagnosed.

Video of a cat smear taken to diagnose Malassezia dermatitis.

Depending on the extent of lesions, symptoms in the animal, the presence of itching, complex treatment may be required, which includes:

• Antibiotics

Antibiotic therapy is prescribed to fight the bacterial infection that grows on the skin affected by Malassezia. The drugs are prescribed for a long time and are not canceled without the decision of a dermatologist.

• Shampoos and external skin treatments

The cat may be given medicated shampoo baths, ear lotions, or topical treatments (eg, 1% or 2% chlorhexidine) several times a day to prevent pathogen growth.

• Antihistamines

Antipruritics are given to animals with severe itching to prevent them from licking or scratching problem areas.

• Elizabethan collar and blanket

To keep the cat from licking and scratching, she may be advised to wear an Elizabethan collar or blanket.

• Systemic antifungals

Oral antifungals are only given to cats for very severe Malassezia lesions. They are rarely used, as cats are very sensitive to these substances and may not tolerate them well. Before the appointment of systemic antifungal therapy, the cat should pass a series of tests to confirm the normal functioning of the liver.

In addition, Malassezia is always a secondary disease and the dermatologist will need to determine the primary cause. The primary cause of Malassezia can be flea infestation, skin parasites, atopic dermatitis, food allergies. In parallel, a cat can be prescribed treatments for ectoparasites, an elimination diet.

Animals suffering from Malassezia are advised to periodically bathe with a special shampoo. Skin folds, external auditory meatus, interdigital areas should be monitored and, if brown plaque appears, local treatments should be started, since local treatments carried out in time can minimize the intake of tablets and drugs for the cat.

It is not necessary to keep the animal constantly in a humid environment, it is necessary to monitor its diet (in case of a diagnosed food allergy). To protect the cat from the fungus, you need to regularly treat the animal from fleas and other ectoparasites.

(c) Veterinary center for the treatment and rehabilitation of animals “Zoostatus”.

Warsaw highway, 125 building 1. tel. 8 (499) 372-27-37

Pityriasis versicolor – causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Definition

Pityriasis versicolor is a chronic superficial fungal skin infection caused by the proliferation of lipophilic yeast ( Malassezia Species ) in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. Pityriasis versicolor got its name in connection with its typical peeling.

The disease mainly affects adolescents and young adults between the ages of 10 and 30, but can occur in any other age group, including infants and the elderly. It is more often registered among the population living in regions with a hot and humid climate.

Causes of pityriasis versicolor

Pityriasis multicolor is caused by dimorphic lipophilic yeast of the genus Malassezia , representatives of the typical skin microflora. The most frequently found are M. globosa , M. sympodialis and M. furfur , less often – M. slooffiae , M. restricta and M. obtusa .

It has been established that about 90% of healthy people are carriers of the saprophytic form of the fungus.

Under the influence of predisposing endogenous (hyperhidrosis, changes in the chemical composition of sweat, a decrease in the physiological peeling of the epidermis, family susceptibility, immunosuppression) and / or exogenous (humidity and high air temperature) factors, the pathogen transforms from a non-pathogenic form into a pathogenic one. The latter is able to synthesize an enzyme that prevents the production of light-absorbing pigment, or toxic compounds that destroy pigment-producing cells. The greatest activity of the pathogen is noted in areas of the skin with a large number of sebaceous glands.
Factors provoking the manifestation of lichen include prolonged treatment with steroid drugs, ionizing radiation, heavy metal poisoning, frequent skin contact with synthetic materials, solar radiation, etc.

complicates their course and often leads to the formation of resistance to drugs used for their therapy.

Pityriasis, or multi-colored lichen is not considered a contagious disease.

Disease classification

There is no classification for pityriasis versicolor.

Symptoms of pityriasis versicolor

As a rule, the disease does not cause concern, although some patients still complain of mild itching. If the patient reports burning, soreness, tingling, then this may indicate a secondary infection of the skin with bacterial flora.

For the most part, pityriasis versicolor, in which areas of the skin look depigmented, is regarded by patients as an unpleasant cosmetic defect.

Lichen is most often localized on the skin of the chest, upper back, shoulders, back of the neck, skin of the scalp and penis.

Atypical localization of pityriasis versicolor includes the face, auricles, ear folds, hands, shins, inguinal and axillary regions, nipple and periareolar region (around the nipple). Multicolored deprive is not observed on the palms, soles and mucous membranes.

The initial manifestations of the disease include light or dark spots with a diameter of 3-5 mm, round or oval, without inflammation. The color of the spots varies from light pink to brown, they are multiple, they can merge, forming large foci. Sometimes in the center of the foci there is pseudoatrophy of the skin (reversible thinning of the skin).

On the surface of the spots, when scraping, small-lamellar scales appear (a symptom of hidden peeling, a symptom of Besnier-Meshchersky), similar to bran. After exposure to ultraviolet rays, as a result of increased peeling, depigmented areas of the skin remain in the lesions.

Symptoms may worsen in hot weather.

Pityriasis versicolor is characterized by a long course (up to several years) and, in the absence of systematic therapy, is prone to recurrence.

There is a special form of the disease – tinea versicolor alba, or white pityriasis versicolor. With it, the skin can completely lose pigment, but not peel off. Depigmentation in this case is not directly related to the shielding properties of fungal colonies and can occur in areas of the skin that have not been exposed to solar radiation.

Diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor

Diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor is based on clinical and laboratory findings.

In the presence of spots of yellowish-pink or brownish color in places typical for the disease, a Balzer diagnostic test is performed: lubrication of the rash area with an alcoholic solution of iodine (2%) or aniline dye (1-2%). With a positive test, the skin in the lesions is stained much more intensely compared to healthy – a symptom of “blotting”.

Patients have a positive symptom of Besnier (the phenomenon of “chips”) – when the spot is scraped, a barely noticeable pityriasis peeling intensifies.

Under a Wood’s fluorescent lamp, brownish or red-yellow foci glow.

Laboratory diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor is based on microscopy of skin scales taken from lesions.

Which doctor to contact

Pityriasis versicolor is treated by dermatologists.

Treatment of pityriasis versicolor

Treatment begins with finding out the reasons why the fungus began to actively multiply on the skin. Accordingly, the therapy of a particular disease is carried out.

For effective treatment of pityriasis versicolor, special antifungal drugs are used to prevent the reproduction of pathogens.

In case of minor skin lesions, treatment includes only external agents. If the process is widespread, systemic drugs may be prescribed.

During the treatment period, clothes should be changed daily. It is desirable that things be made from natural fabrics, as this will prevent excessive sweating. All things must be washed at the highest possible temperature, after washing and drying, iron thoroughly with a hot iron.

Complications

The disease is not dangerous to health.

Prevention of pityriasis versicolor

Prevention of pityriasis versicolor includes the following recommendations:

• fight hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) – shower more often, wear clothes made from natural fabrics;
• dress appropriately for the weather and avoid overheating;
• do not injure the skin with abrasive scrubs and peels;
• choose the right cosmetics – they should suit your skin type and your needs.

Sources:

1. Clinical recommendations “Pityriasis versicolor”. Developed by: Russian Society of Dermatologists and Cosmetologists. -2020.
2. Skripkin Yu.K. Dermatovenereology. National leadership / ed. Yu.K. Skripkina, Yu.S. Butova, O.L. Ivanova. – Moscow: GEOTAR-Media, 2014. – 1024 p.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.