[Pityriasis versicolor in children]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatrics
• Mycology

Background:

• Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia yeasts.
• It typically affects adolescents and adults, rarely occurring in infants.
• Infantile pityriasis versicolor presents diagnostic and management challenges.

Observation:

• Four cases of pityriasis versicolor in infants aged two to five months are presented.
• Clinical presentation and diagnostic methods are detailed for each case.
• The infants presented with characteristic hypopigmented macules.

Findings:

• The diagnosis was confirmed by KOH microscopy and/or fungal culture.
• Treatment with topical antifungals was effective in all reported cases.
• No significant adverse events or recurrences were noted.

Implications:

• This case series expands the understanding of pityriasis versicolor in early infancy.
• Highlights the importance of considering fungal infections in the differential diagnosis of neonatal and infant skin conditions.
• Suggests that topical antifungal therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for infantile pityriasis versicolor.