Publication:

Clinico-epidemiological study of pityriasis versicolor in a rural tertiary care hospital

Background The study was conducted to know the incidence of pityriasis versicolor in relation to age, sex, seasons and occupation in a rural set up.

Methods A total of 105 patients of pityriasis versicolor were clinically evaluated and confirmed mycologically at central lab in a tertiary care hospital in South India. The obtained data was recorded and analysed accordingly.

Results Male preponderance was observed in the study. Disease was most pronounced in younger age group (21-30 years) especially students. 61.9% of patients sought medical advice on cosmetic grounds while 38% had pruritis. Chest was the commonest site of affection followed by neck and back.

Conclusion Early identification of the yeast by simple laboratory techniques would help prevent recurrences, systemic complications and cosmetological problems which are high especially among the students and younger age groups.