Which therapy is listed for pityriasis versicolor among the options?

Which therapy is listed for pityriasis versicolor among the options?

• A. 2.5% selenium sulfide shampoo
• B. Imidazole cream
• C. Oral fluconazole
• D. Ketoconazole shampoo

Answer: (C)

Pityriasis versicolor is caused by Malassezia yeast and can be treated with antifungals. For localized disease, topical agents like selenium sulfide shampoo or ketoconazole shampoo are commonly used. An oral antifungal is chosen when disease is extensive or recurrent. Among the options, oral fluconazole stands out because it provides systemic coverage and can effectively treat wider involvement with a short course. The other choices are topical therapies (selenium sulfide shampoo, ketoconazole shampoo, and a topical imidazole cream), which are useful for localized disease but not as practical for extensive cases.

Pityriasis versicolor is caused by Malassezia yeast and can be treated with antifungals. For localized disease, topical agents like selenium sulfide shampoo or ketoconazole shampoo are commonly used. An oral antifungal is chosen when disease is extensive or recurrent. Among the options, oral fluconazole stands out because it provides systemic coverage and can effectively treat wider involvement with a short course. The other choices are topical therapies (selenium sulfide shampoo, ketoconazole shampoo, and a topical imidazole cream), which are useful for localized disease but not as practical for extensive cases.