Tinea Versicolour is caused by:
**Core Concept**
Tinea Versicolour, also known as pityriasis versicolor, is a common skin infection characterized by patches of discoloration on the skin. It is a superficial fungal infection caused by a specific type of yeast, which affects the skin's appearance and texture.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is caused by the yeast **Malassezia** species, particularly **Malassezia globosa**. This yeast is normally present on the skin, but when it overgrows, it can cause the formation of lesions and discoloration. The exact mechanism is thought to involve the production of melanin by the yeast, which leads to the characteristic patches of color on the skin.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Trichophyton rubrum is a common cause of dermatophyte infections, such as athlete's foot and jock itch, but it is not associated with Tinea Versicolour.
**Option B:** Candida albicans is a yeast that can cause a range of infections, including thrush and genital yeast infections, but it is not the primary cause of Tinea Versicolour.
**Option C:** Epidermophyton floccosum is another type of dermatophyte that causes skin and nail infections, but it is not linked to Tinea Versicolour.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Tinea Versicolour is more common in warm and humid climates, and it often affects individuals with oily skin. It can be treated with topical antifungal agents, such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, or with oral antifungal medications in more severe cases.
**Correct Answer: D. Malassezia species**