Tinea blanca

This code represents tinea blanca, also known as pityriasis versicolor alba or tinea versicolor alba, a superficial fungal infection of the skin characterized by hypopigmented (lighter than normal) patches. It is caused by species of Malassezia yeast, which interfere with melanin production in the affected areas.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of tinea blanca or pityriasis versicolor with a predominant presentation of hypopigmentation. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical appearance, sometimes confirmed by microscopic examination of skin scrapings (KOH prep) showing characteristic yeast and hyphae.

• Differentiate from other hypopigmentary disorders like vitiligo or post-inflammatory hypopigmentation.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "alba" or "blanca" to distinguish from other forms of tinea versicolor.
• Consider additional codes for any associated symptoms or complications, if documented.