How to Differentiate Between Vitiligo and Tinea Versicolor

The main differences between vitiligo and pityriasis versicolor (also known as tinea versicolor) are as follows: 1. Symptoms and color: Vitiligo is characterized by white patches on the skin, whereas pityriasis versicolor mainly presents as spots of various colors including skin-toned, light brown, or yellowish brown. 2. Shape and borders: Vitiligo patches are often round or irregular in shape, with clear borders and a smooth surface. In contrast, pityriasis versicolor lesions are commonly round, oval, or irregularly shaped, with blurred borders and possibly slight peeling or fine scaling on the surface. 3. Affected areas: Vitiligo can occur on any part of the body, but it commonly appears on the face, arms, and legs. Pityriasis versicolor tends to develop in areas prone to sweating, such as the armpits, neck, and waist. 4. Causes: Vitiligo results from damage to or deficiency of melanocytes, while pityriasis versicolor is a fungal infection caused by Malassezia fungi infecting the stratum corneum of the epidermis.