False about Tinea versicolor
**Core Concept**
Tinea versicolor is a common superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia species, particularly Malassezia furfur. It affects the stratum corneum of the skin, leading to characteristic hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The infection is characterized by an abnormality in the adhesion of the fungal cells to the skin, allowing them to penetrate the stratum corneum. This is due to the production of lipase by Malassezia, which breaks down the triglycerides in the skin's natural lipids, causing an inflammatory response and the appearance of hypo- or hyperpigmented patches.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Tinea versicolor is caused by Trichophyton rubrum, a dermatophyte fungus. This is incorrect because Malassezia species are the primary causative agents of Tinea versicolor, not dermatophytes.
**Option B:** Tinea versicolor is a bacterial infection. This is incorrect because Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection caused by yeast, not bacteria.
**Option C:** Tinea versicolor is treated with topical antifungal agents. This is partially correct, but not entirely accurate because systemic antifungal agents may also be required for severe cases, especially in immunocompromised patients.
**Option D:** Tinea versicolor is contagious. This is incorrect because Tinea versicolor is not contagious, and it does not spread from person to person.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that Tinea versicolor can be difficult to diagnose based on clinical appearance alone, and a potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation or fungal culture may be necessary for confirmation.
**Correct Answer: B. Tinea versicolor is a bacterial infection.**