What Are the Differences Between Tinea Versicolor and Vitiligo?
Disease description:
Recently, I noticed white patches appearing on my father’s body, and I suspect they might be tinea versicolor or vitiligo. What are the differences between tinea versicolor and vitiligo?
Distinguishing Tinea Versicolor from Vitiligo
Tinea versicolor is caused by a fungal infection and is often accompanied by mild itching—especially during sweating—and fine scaling. In contrast, vitiligo results from pigment loss; its lesions feature well-defined borders, are neither painful nor itchy, and the affected skin remains smooth without scaling. When white patches appear on the body, individuals should promptly visit the dermatology department of a reputable hospital for evaluation. Once the underlying cause is accurately diagnosed, targeted treatment can be initiated.