Abstract:
The present study was aimed to determine the prevalence
of pityriasis versicolor in the university students in Southeast of Iran.
Clinical examination conducted and Wood’s light (260-2600 A° UV light)
utilized on 800 volunteer students including 400 males and 400 females.
Consequently, the students presenting any macular lesion subjected to
further examinations including direct smears, sellotape and culture methods
for identification of Malassezia species. Pityriasis versicolor
was clinically determined in 159 (39.75%) male and 179 (44.75%) female
students. Wood’s light examination was positive with yellowish-golden
demonstration, in 32.5% of males and 39.5% of females, indicating the
involvement of Pityriasis versicolor and Malassezia species. Direct
examination and culture results demonstrated 84.50 and 80% positive, respectively.
The study confirmed a high prevalence of pityriasis versicolor in the
students living in university dormitories. This infection, therefore,
should be noted as an important public health problem in the study area,
particularly, where students live together. Also, the pathogenic consequences
of Malassezia species and its predominant involvement in pityriasis
versicolor should be considered.
