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