Symptoms and Signs of Tinea Versicolor

Doctor's Notes on Tinea Versicolor

Tenia versicolor is a superficial skin infection caused by a normal body yeast termed Malassezia furfur. Signs and symptoms that are characteristic for tenia versicolor is a rash consisting of dark or red patches on light skin and light patches on dark skin. The term “versicolor” means color variations. The rash is usually found on the shoulders, mid-back and chest; occasionally, face and arm involvement may occur.

The cause of tenia versicolor is infection by the normal body yeast, Malassezia furfur. Some associated potential causes are hot, humid environments and possibly hormonally related variations in skin oils.