Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor (also known as “Dermatomycosis furfuracea,” “Pityriasis versicolor,” and “Tinea flava”) is a condition characterized by a rash on the trunk and proximal extremities. Recent research has shown that the majority of pityriasis versicolor is caused by Malassezia globosa, although M. furfur is responsible for a small number of cases. These yeasts are normally found on the human skin and only become troublesome under certain circumstances, such as a warm and humid environment, although the exact conditions that cause initiation of the disease process are poorly understood.

Scalp Infections (Malassezia)

Symptomatic scalp infections are often treated with selenium disulfide or ketoconazole containing shampoos. Other treatments include ciclopirox olamine, coal tar, zinc pyrithione (ZPT), miconazole, or tea tree oil medicated shampoos. Hydrogen peroxide is also used to manage symptoms of itching.