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Uncommon presentations of tinea versicolor
Sowmya Varada1, Tushar Dabade1, Daniel S Loo1
1Tufts Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, Boston, MA, USA.
Dermatology Practical & Conceptual
|August 16, 2014
Summary
Tinea versicolor (TV) is a common fungal skin infection. This report highlights unusual TV locations, emphasizing the need for clinical awareness and proper diagnosis in diverse presentations.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tinea versicolor (TV) is a common superficial fungal infection.
- Typically presents with scaling and pigmentation changes on the trunk and shoulders.
- Uncommon locations include face, scalp, limbs, intertriginous areas, and palms/soles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two cases of tinea versicolor in unusual locations: the popliteal fossa and groin.
- To increase clinician awareness of atypical presentations of tinea versicolor.
- To review the literature on tinea versicolor in uncommon sites.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients with tinea versicolor in atypical locations.
- Review of existing literature on tinea versicolor in unusual body regions.
Main Results:
- A 32-year-old woman presented with tinea versicolor in the popliteal fossa.
- A 16-year-old boy presented with tinea versicolor in the groin.
- Literature review confirmed other instances of TV in uncommon locations.
Conclusions:
- Tinea versicolor can manifest in varied and unusual body sites.
- Clinicians should consider TV in differential diagnoses for characteristic lesions, regardless of location.
- Awareness of atypical presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of tinea versicolor.
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