Pityriasis versicolor is a benign skin fungus that proliferates on the trunk, roots of the limbs and abdomen. This disease is caused by the fungus Malassezia furfur, the oval Pityrosporum or orbiculare in filamentous form. Pityriasis versicolor is seen in both men and women. It usually affects young adults. Pityriasis versicolor mainly affects areas of the skin with a large number of sebaceous glands.
Symptoms
Pityriasis versicolor is caused by small scaly lesions on the trunk. Small spots of a lighter or darker complexion than the skin may proliferate on the chest and back. These spots are due to the multiplication of fungi and are easily flaky. If left untreated, pityriasis versicolor markings can spread to form larger spots. In addition, they can extend over different parts of the body, including the thigh and arms. The factors that promote this disease are hormonal imbalances, genetic predispositions as well as heat and humidity.
Treatments
The treatment of pityriasis versicolor is based on the application of antifungal products such as ketoconazole-based shampoo. The use of this shampoo should be accompanied by taking Arsenicum Iodatum granules and Arsenicum Album of 5 Ch respectively and a Sepia Officinalis granule of 7 Ch in the morning and evening. In addition, taking these remedies can be coupled with the friction of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil on the affected areas. Sulfur complex Lehning n° 12 available in pharmacies is very effective against pityriasis versicolor. The pack includes Arsenicum Album at 4 Dh and Sulfur at 3 Dh, to be consumed twice a day.
Two rubs a day for three weeks of Imidazoles lotion or shampoo are recommended from the first outbreaks of pityriasis versicolor. For a full treatment of the scalp and the whole body, a treatment with Ketoderm gel that is single-dose every week is suitable. The use of selenium sulfide is also an alternative against pityriasis versicolor. Three treatments per week for three weeks are recommended. In the event of a recurrence, the treatment should be applied once or twice a week for several months. It is recommended to avoid sun exposure during treatment of pityriasis versicolor. White spots replace the traces left by pityriasis versicolor on the skin at the end of the treatment.
When to see a doctor?
If the symptoms do not subside after the treatment of the first flare-ups and when the spots reappear, consultation with a dermatologist is recommended. The practitioner may combine homeopathic medicines with a treatment of Fluconazole for two weeks, Ketoconazole for 10 days and Triflucan.
