Folliculocentric tinea versicolor: a case report

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology

Background:

• Tinea versicolor is a common superficial fungal infection.
• A rare follicular variant of tinea versicolor was observed.
• The patient had a history of keratosis pilaris.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old woman presented with a year-long history of trunk lesions.
• Physical examination revealed light brown, follicular-centered patches on the axillae and trunk.
• Scales were visible on the lesions, with some coalescing on the back.

Findings:

• Fungal microscopy and pathological examination confirmed folliculocentric tinea versicolor.
• This represents a rare presentation of the common fungal infection.

Implications:

• Follicular tinea versicolor is an uncommon manifestation.
• The etiology of the folliculocentric pattern remains unclear.
• A history of keratosis pilaris may predispose individuals to this presentation.