Overview

Tinea versicolor is a superficial fungal infection caused by overgrowth of Malassezia yeast that disrupts normal skin pigmentation, creating lighter or darker patches. Not contagious, not dangerous, and not related to hygiene. Recurrence is common. Kuwait's hot humid climate makes it extremely prevalent year-round.

Symptoms

• Discoloured patches — lighter on darker skin, pinkish-red on lighter skin
• Typically on chest, back, shoulders, and neck
• Mild itching when sweating; patches don't tan normally after sun exposure
• Fine scale when scratched

Causes & Risk Factors

• Overgrowth of Malassezia furfur triggered by hot humid weather, heavy sweating, oily skin
• Weakened immune system; oily skincare products; hormonal changes

Complications

• High recurrence rate — especially in Kuwait's climate
• Skin colour may take months to normalise after successful treatment

Diagnosis

Clinical exam. Wood's lamp: yellow-green fluorescence. KOH microscopy: spaghetti and meatballs pattern of hyphae and yeast.

Treatment

• Topical: ketoconazole shampoo/cream (apply 5 mins before rinsing), selenium sulfide shampoo, clotrimazole cream
• Oral for widespread/recurrent cases: itraconazole (single dose or short course), fluconazole
• Note: skin colour normalises gradually over weeks to months after treatment

Prevention

• Shower promptly after sweating; use antifungal shampoo on chest and back monthly in Kuwait's summer
• Avoid heavy oily sunscreens in summer; wear breathable clothing

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