A 30-year-old woman presents with multiple hypopigmented, slightly scaly patches on her trunk and neck, which are more noticeable after sun exposure. A KOH preparation of skin scrapings from these lesions would most likely show:

Explanation

The clinical description of multiple hypopigmented, slightly scaly patches, especially noticeable after sun exposure, is classic for pityriasis versicolor (tinea versicolor). This condition is caused by Malassezia species (e.g., Malassezia furfur). On a KOH preparation of skin scrapings, Malassezia typically presents as a combination of short, blunt-ended hyphae and clusters of budding yeast cells, which is often described as a "spaghetti and meatballs" appearance. Long, branching septate hyphae are characteristic of dermatophytes. Pseudohyphae and numerous blastospores are seen in Candida infections. Large, thick-walled spherules with endospores are characteristic of Coccidioides immitis, a deep fungal infection.