Pityriasis Versicolor

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What is pityriasis versicolor and what causes it?

Pityriasis versicolor is a rash caused by a yeast-like germ called 'pityrosporum'. Small numbers of this germ commonly live on the skin, and do no harm.

However, some people seem prone to this germ multiplying on their skin more than usual, which leads to a rash. Often the germ multiplies and causes the rash for no apparent reason. In some cases, hot, sunny, or humid weather seems to 'trigger' the germ to multiply on the skin.

What are the symptoms?

The rash usually starts as small pale patches. At first these usually appear on the chest, neck, or upper arms. The rash sometimes spreads to the abdomen, thighs, and back. More patches may appear, and patches next to each other may join together. The affected skin may become slightly scaly.

The rash is usually pale, and is barely noticeable if you are fair-skinned. You may not notice it until after you sunbathe. Affected areas do not tan, and therefore the rash becomes more obvious on tanned skin. The pale patches are more obvious if you have dark skin. (Sometimes the rash is darker than the skin in fair-skinned people, and it looks like brown marks.)

There are usually no other symptoms. Sometimes it is slightly itchy.

Is it serious?

No. If you wanted a even sun-tan, then this rash is a nuisance as pale patches on tanned skin may look unsightly.

Is it infectious or contagious?

No. The yeast-like germ that causes the rash is commonly found on the skin, and usually does no harm. For reasons that are not clear, it seems that the germ multiplies more easily to cause a rash on certain people.

What is the treatment for pityriasis versicolor?

• Ketoconazole shampoo (2%) is commonly advised. You can buy this at pharmacies, and it is also available on prescription. Ketoconazole kills the germ that causes this rash. Apply the shampoo 'neat' to affected areas, and then wash off after five minutes. Repeat each day for five days. Some doctors advise that you should then apply the shampoo about once a week for six months to try and clear the skin completely of the germ.
• Selenium sulphide shampoo is an alternative. It is not strictly licensed for the treatment of this rash, but it works. You can buy it from pharmacies. Dilute the shampoo with water 50:50 (half water, half shampoo). Then apply the diluted shampoo to the affected areas. Leave to dry, and wash off in 24 hours. Apply twice a week for four weeks.
• An antifungal cream is an alternative. You can buy these at pharmacies, and they are also available on prescription. (Yeasts are similar to fungus germs, and antifungal creams also kill yeasts.)
• Anti-fungal tablets may be prescribed if the rash is over a large area of your skin, or is not cleared by the above treatments.

Note: after treatment, the colour of the affected skin usually takes 3-6 months to return to normal.

Some people seem prone to this yeast-like germ multiplying on their skin, and the rash may recur after treatment. One option is to apply one of the above shampoos to your skin every 2-4 weeks. This may keep the germ away, or prevent the numbers building up, which will prevent the rash from recurring.

Pictures of skin conditions

For a list of internet sites which contain pictures of skin conditions see http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/680#skinpics. The sites listed have not been checked to see if there is a picture of Pityriasis Versicolor, but these sites are large and comprehensive.

© EMIS and PIP 2005   Updated: February 2005   Review Date: July 2006   CHIQ Accredited   PRODIGY Validated

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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