Factors associated with pityriasis versicolor in a large national database

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a common fungal infection affecting adolescents and young adults.
• PV is often associated with hyperhidrosis and humid climates.
• Identifying additional risk factors for PV can improve diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess associations between PV and patient demographics, comorbidities, and medication use.
• Utilized the All of Us Database, a large, diverse, national US database.
• Investigated potential risk factors for pityriasis versicolor.

Main Methods:

• Employed a case-control study design.
• Conducted multivariable analysis to identify significant associations.
• Analyzed data from 456 PV case-patients and 1368 control-patients.

Main Results:

• PV patients were younger, more likely to be male, Black, or Asian compared to controls.
• Acne was significantly more prevalent in PV patients (OR: 5.37).
• PV was less common in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (OR: 0.52) and hypothyroidism (OR: 0.59).

Conclusions:

• Findings suggest a potential link between acne and increased PV risk.
• Lower odds of PV were observed in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism.
• Future research could explore if acne treatment influences PV risk.