Pityriasis versicolor

Pityriasis versicolor is one of the conditions which we see a lot of. It is caused by the growth of a yeast which is actually part of our normal skin microflora called Malassezia. Small numbers of the malassezia germs that causes pityriasis versicolor commonly live on the skin and do no harm. However, some people are prone to this germ multiplying and spreading on their skin more than usual or becoming activated, which then leads to a rash developing. In some cases, hot, sunny or humid weather seems to trigger the germ to multiply on the skin. This is because the yeast is dependent on oils or lipids for survival which is why it is found in our oily or “sebaceous” areas such as the chest and back most commonly. It appears as white or brown patches on the skin which become scaly if you stretch the skin. It is important to note that it is not possible to catch this condition from another person.