What is the Difference Between Pityriasis Versicolor and Vitiligo?

Pityriasis versicolor and vitiligo are two distinct skin conditions that can cause discolored patches on the skin. Here are the main differences between the two:

Causes: Pityriasis versicolor is caused by a fungal infection due to the yeast Malassezia furfur, which affects the top layer of the skin. Vitiligo, on the other hand, is an autoimmune skin disease that destroys the skin's pigment-producing cells (melanocytes).
Symptoms: Pityriasis versicolor usually causes scaly or flaky patches on the skin, while vitiligo affects the skin's texture and often results in smooth, white patches. Pityriasis versicolor often appears on the back, chest, upper arms, neck, and tummy, while vitiligo is more common around the mouth, eyes, fingers, wrists, armpits, and groin.
Appearance: Pityriasis versicolor can cause dark spots or redness on light skin and patches of lightness on dark skin. Vitiligo causes the skin to lighten progressively, eventually leading to a loss of color, including whitening or graying of hair in the affected area.
Treatment: Pityriasis versicolor is typically treated with antifungal medications, either topical or oral. Vitiligo has no cure, but treatments such as topical steroids, psoralens, protopic ointment, and certain wavelengths of ultraviolet light can be used to manage the condition. In some cases, cosmetic coverage can also be used to conceal the white patches.

If you notice any unusual skin symptoms or discolored patches, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider or a dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

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What is the Difference Between Pityriasis Versicolor and Vitiligo?

Comparative Table: Pityriasis Versicolor vs Vitiligo

Pityriasis versicolor and vitiligo are two different skin conditions that can cause discolored patches on the skin. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

Feature	Pityriasis Versicolor	Vitiligo
Cause	Fungal infection (Malassezia furfur)	Autoimmune skin disease that destroys pigment-producing cells (melanocytes)
Symptoms	Patches may be darker or lighter than normal skin color, red, brown, or pink	Patches are usually lighter than the surrounding skin, appears chalk or milk white
Affected Areas	Often affects back, chest, upper arms, neck, and tummy	More common around mouth, eyes, fingers, wrists, armpits, and groin
Texture	Affected skin may be slightly scaly or flaky	Affected skin usually has a normal texture
Progression	Patches tend to develop gradually and may join up to form larger patches over time	Vitiligo often develops symmetrically (on both sides of the body at the same time)
Treatment	Antifungal creams, shampoos, or tablets	Treatments include topical ointments, phototherapy, laser treatment, and medications
Contagiousness	Not contagious	Not contagious

Both conditions can cause similar changes in skin coloration, but they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.