Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staffYour doctor can diagnose tinea versicolor with a skin exam. If there's any doubt, he or she may take skin scrapings from the infected area and view them under a microscope.
References
- Goldstein BG, et al. Tinea versicolor. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 29, 2009.
- Dhar AD. Tinea versicolor. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec10/ch120/ch120e.html. Accessed Jan. 4, 2010.
- Berger TG. Dermatologic disorders. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2010. 49th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx? aID=747. Accessed Dec. 28, 2009.
- McCall CO, et al. Eczema, psoriasis, cutaneous infections, acne, and other common skin disorders. In: Fauci AS, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2864389. Accessed Dec. 28, 2009.

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