Clinical profile of pityriasis versicolor in a referral hospital of West Bengal

ABSTRACT

Pityriasis versicolor [PV] is a common superficial mycosis in the tropical countries. It is caused by several species of a lipophilic dimorphic fungus, Malassezia. Depending on climatic condition, its clinical profile is expected to vary from one region to other. To determine clinical profile and some important associations in this disease in a referral hospital of Northern part of West Bengal. 160 consecutive microscopically confirmed cases of pityriasis versicolor attending the OPD were taken up for detailed history and clinical examination. PV was found to be the commonest in the age group 13-24 years. 35.6% were females. In 51.9% cases PV was the presenting complaint. In 53.8% the disease was asymptomatic. The commonest clinical presentation was hypopigmented macules and the commonest site of involvement was face in children and females above the age of 12 years and chest in males above 12 years. Involvement of lower limb was significantly commoner [p<0.05] in children than their older counterparts. Seborrheic dermatitis was found in 31.9% of our cases. Environmental factors played more important role in our series than other known predisposing factors. Relationship between PV and seborrheic dermatitis is still an enigma which needs further investigation. Lower limb is a common site of affection among children