Are pityriasis versicolor and vitiligo the same?

Pityriasis versicolor, also known as tinea versicolor, is a superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia infection of the epidermal stratum corneum and is associated with fungal infection. Vitiligo, on the other hand, is a depigmenting skin disorder whose development may be related to multiple factors including genetic factors, neurochemical substances, autoimmune diseases, and abnormalities in melanocytes. Pityriasis versicolor commonly occurs on the trunk, upper limbs, lower limbs, and other areas with active sebaceous gland secretion or excessive sweating. Vitiligo can occur on any part of the body but commonly appears on exposed skin areas such as the face, dorsum of the hands, forearms, neck, lumbosacral region, and legs. Pityriasis versicolor mainly presents as hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches in colors such as light brown, grayish, or yellowish brown. These patches are typically covered with a bran-like scale and may be accompanied by mild itching or a burning sensation. The clinical manifestation of vitiligo is localized depigmented patches of varying sizes with clear borders. The skin at the periphery of the lesion appears darker where it meets healthy skin. The hair within the white patches may turn white, and there are no subjective symptoms. Treatment for pityriasis versicolor mainly involves antifungal therapy, with commonly used medications including antifungal creams. Maintaining local skin cleanliness is also important to prevent infection. Treatment for vitiligo is relatively complex and mainly involves medical management, such as topical corticosteroids, as well as physical therapies including phototherapy and depigmentation therapy.