|
Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Tinea Versicolor
DESCRIPTION (Diagnosis must be confirmed by a physician.)
- The name means "multicolored ringworm."
- The condition occurs in adolescents and adults.
- Numerous spots and patches appear on the neck, upper
back, and shoulders.
- The spots are covered by a fine scale.
- The spots vary in size.
- In summer, the spots are light and don't tan like the
normal skin.
- In winter, as normal skin tone fades, the spots look
darker (often pink or brown) than normal Caucasian skin.
CAUSE
This superficial infection is caused by a yeastlike fungus
call Malassezia furfur. It is more common in warm, humid
climates.
EXPECTED COURSE
The problem tends to wax and wane for many years. Since
complications do not occur, tinea versicolor is solely a
cosmetic problem. Itching is uncommon.
HOME CARE
- Selsun Blue shampoo
Selsun Blue (selenium sulfide) is a nonprescription
medicated shampoo that can cure this condition. Apply
this shampoo once a day for 14 days. Apply it to the
affected skin areas as well as 2 or 3 inches onto the
adjacent normal skin. Rub it in and let it dry. Be
careful to keep it away from the eyes and genitals,
since it is irritating to these tissues. After 30
minutes, take a shower. In 2 weeks the scaling should
be stopped, and the rash temporarily cured. Normal skin
color will not return for 6 to 12 months.
- Prevention of recurrences
Tinea versicolor tends to recur. Prevent this by
applying Selsun Blue shampoo to the formerly involved
areas once a month for several years. Leave it on for 1
to 2 hours, then shower. This precaution is especially
important in the summer months because this fungus thrives
in warm weather.
- Contagiousness
Tinea versicolor is not contagious. This fungus is a
normal inhabitant of the hair follicles in many people.
Only a few develop the overgrowth of the fungus and a
rash.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- The rash is not improved with this treatment after
2 weeks.
- You feel your child is getting worse.
- You have other questions or concerns.
RELATED TOPIC
Ringworm
|
