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The use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks and protective measures such as repeated contact of hands with water and skin disinfectants are recommended to prevent the spread of Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, these hygiene measures may cause skin injury and skin diseases, including superficial-cutaneous-fungal infections (SCFIs). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and comparison of SCFIs before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, the data of patients suspected of SCFIs who had been referred to two clinical mycology laboratories in Shiraz, Iran, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were reviewed. Collected data included date of admission, demographic information, site of infection, risk factors associated with SCFIs, and results of diagnostic tests. A total of 3781 patients suspected of having SCFIs were included in the study. Among them, 1750 (46.28%) patients were positive for SCFIs, 778 (44.45%), and 972 (55.54%) belonged to the periods before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively. The highest frequency of SCFIs before and during the pandemic was observed in the age group of 21–50 years (n = 910, 52%). Dermatophytosis was the most common SCFI before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The highest and lowest infection sites before and during the pandemic were the fingernails (n = 496, 28.34%) and the auricle (n = 3, 0.17%), respectively. Our findings showed that the prevalence of SCFIs has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Knowing the pattern of SCFIs might help dermatologists with initial and experimental antifungal therapy for future pandemic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Tinea versicolor is a common cutaneous fungal infection of the skin caused by a part of the resident flora of skin known as Malassezia species. This infection is recognized by pigmentation disturbance in the form of lesions and superficial scaling in the skin. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 350 students between the ages of 18-25 years who lived in a school dormitory and were suspected of clinical diagnosis of Tinea versicolor. The Scotch tape method was used to take samples from the infected skin of students, and methylene blue staining was used to prepare smears. Results: After mycological examinations, among the 350 suspected students, 30 cases tested positive for Tinea versicolor, including 17 males and 13 females. 43.3% (n: 13) of patients had hypopigmentation followed by hyperpigmentation (33.3%, n:10) and erythematous (23.3%, n:7). Conclusion: This study demonstrated a significant prevalence of Tinea versicolor among the students located in the dormitories, with a higher rate among male students. Different infection periods and lesions were observed in the cases, but no severe lesion was seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV), a cutaneous fungal infection, most commonly affects adolescents and young adults and is associated with hyperhidrosis and humid weather. Understanding other factors associated with PV might help improve diagnostic and treatment practices. Objectives: PV's associations with patient demographics, comorbidities and medication exposures were assessed using the All of Us Database, a large, diverse, national database from the United States. Methods: A case–control study with multivariable analysis was performed. Results: We identified 456 PV case‐patients and 1368 control‐patients. PV case‐patients (vs. control‐patients) were younger (median age [years] (standard deviation): 48.7 (15.4) vs. 61.9 (15.5); OR: 0.95, CI: 0.94–0.96) and more likely to be men versus women (42.8% vs. 33.9%, OR: 1.45, CI: 1.16–1.79) and Black (19.5% vs. 15.8%, OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.02–1.80) or Asian (4.6% vs. 2.7%, OR: 1.86, CI: 1.07–3.24) versus White. PV case‐patients more frequently had acne (5.3% vs. ≤1.5%, OR: 5.37, CI: 2.76–10.48) and less frequently had type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (14.7% vs. 24.7%, OR: 0.52, CI: 0.39–0.70) and hypothyroidism (OR: 10.3% vs. 16.4%, OR: 0.59, CI: 0.42–0.82). In multivariable analysis, PV odds were significantly higher in those with acne and lower in those with T2DM, older age and female sex. Conclusions: Our results may be used as a basis for future studies evaluating whether acne treatment may decrease PV risk. Physicians could educate patients with acne about PV, including strategies to control modifiable PV risk factors, such as avoidance of hot and humid environments and avoidance of use of topical skin oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Tinea versicolor is a very common condition. We reported a specific follicular manifestation and proposed that this particular presentation might be related to the patient’s history of previous keratosis pilaris. Case presentation A 46-year-old Asian woman of Han ethnicity presented to the clinic with trunk lesions for over a year. On physical examination: multiple light brown patches of varying size centered on hair follicles in the axillae and trunk, with the patches on the back fusing together and scales visible on the surface of the patches. Finally, through fungal microscopy and pathological examination, the patient was diagnosed with folliculocentric tinea versicolor. Conclusions Follicular tinea versicolor is a rare type of tinea versicolor. It is still not clear what causes tinea versicolor to become folliculocentric. This case may suggest that patients with a history of keratosis pilaris may have a tendency to develop follicular centration in the course of other diseases.

Background: Tinea versicolor is a very common condition. We reported a specific follicular manifestation and proposed that this particular presentation might be related to the patient's history of previous keratosis pilaris. Case presentation: A 46-year-old Asian woman of Han ethnicity presented to the clinic with trunk lesions for over a year. On physical examination: multiple light brown patches of varying size centered on hair follicles in the axillae and trunk, with the patches on the back fusing together and scales visible on the surface of the patches. Finally, through fungal microscopy and pathological examination, the patient was diagnosed with folliculocentric tinea versicolor. Conclusions: Follicular tinea versicolor is a rare type of tinea versicolor. It is still not clear what causes tinea versicolor to become folliculocentric. This case may suggest that patients with a history of keratosis pilaris may have a tendency to develop follicular centration in the course of other diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pityriasis versicolor, a common skin fungal infection, is typically observed on trunk and limb skin. Here, we highlight an unusual presentation: scalp involvement, often overlooked due to its asymptomatic, mildly scaly patches. We report four pediatric cases, emphasizing the potential underestimation of this scalp variant. This case series underscores the importance of considering this diagnosis in patients with unexplained scalp hypopigmentation, especially in males with short hair who may readily notice these subtle changes. The report contributes to the understanding of this variant's clinical presentation and emphasizes the need for awareness among clinicians to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

This narrative review presents a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and management of pityriasis versicolor (PV), a common superficial fungal infection caused by the yeast Malassezia. PV is characterised by scaly hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches, primarily affecting the upper trunk, neck, and upper arms. Regarding commensal interactions, Malassezia utilises nutrient sources without affecting the human host. In cases of pathogenicity, Malassezia can directly harm the host via virulence factors or toxins, or indirectly by triggering damaging host responses. The diagnosis typically relies on recognising characteristic clinical features. Due to the wide variability in its clinical presentation, recognising the differential diagnosis is critical. In this paper, we discuss the clinical differentials, with their dermatoscopic presentation, but also describe a range of helpful diagnostic techniques (microscopy, conventional and ultraviolet-induced fluorescence dermatoscopy, and confocal microscopy). Topical therapies are the primary treatment for PV, encompassing non-specific antifungal agents like sulphur with salicylic acid, selenium sulphide 2.5%, and zinc pyrithione. Additionally, specific topical antifungal medications with either fungicidal or fungistatic properties may also be incorporated into the topical treatment regimen, such as imidazoles, allylamines, and ciclopirox olamine. Systemic therapies might occasionally be used. Patient education and the promotion of good personal hygiene are pivotal to reduce the risk of recurrence. In recurrent cases, particularly during warmer and more humid periods, prolonged prophylaxis with topical agents should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We conducted a systematic review of the literature from the PubMed database from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2021. The search criteria were “(pityriasis versicolor OR tinea versicolor) AND treatment,” with the full text available and the English language required. This review focuses on the clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of antifungal and non-antifungal treatment for pityriasis versicolor. Background: Pityriasis versicolor is a chronic superficial mycosis caused by the Malassezia species. The condition is one of the most common infections worldwide, particularly in tropical climates. Although it is a superficial infection, recurrences are high due to the presence of Malassezia in the normal skin flora. Summary: Topical and oral antifungal treatments effectively reduce the recurrence, leading to a lasting clinical and mycological cure. In addition to antifungal therapies, non-antifungal treatments have shown efficacy in cases of recurrent pityriasis versicolor and could be used as maintenance or preventive therapy. Due to high recurrence rates, prophylactic treatment may be necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The genus Malassezia is a normal flora of our body. It needs lipid supplements for its growth and is seen in the area rich in sebaceous glands. It is a causative agent of Pityriasis versicolor (PV), Malassezia folliculitis, seborrheic dermatitis and also associated with some systemic infection like fungemia, catheter acquired sepsis in patients receiving lipid parenteral nutrition. Increased incidence of Malassezia infection emphasizes the need of susceptibility to choose a specific and accurate treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in-vitro activity of amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole and voriconazole against the Malassezia spp isolated from PV and healthy individuals. Methodology: Modification of the CLSI M27-A3 document method using Christensen's urea broth with the addition of 0.5% Tween 40 and 0.1% Tween 80 was performed to evaluate the optimal antifungal susceptibility patterns of the isolates. Results: The Malassezia spp from healthy and PV patients shows variability in susceptibility pattern. Among the different species the lowest Microbial Inhibition Concentration (MICs) were found in amphotericin B, ketoconazole and Fluconazole with MIC50 values of 0.62, 0.03 and 0.125 in healthy individuals respectively. Isolates from PV patients showed slight highest value of MIC50 0.5, 0.25 and 0.5 respectively. Conclusion: The susceptibility pattern showed intra species variation and difference between healthy and PV patients as well. This emphasizes the need to identify the species and to evaluate the antifungal susceptibility of Malassezia. Further investigation is needed to correlate the in-vitro activity of antifungal agents with clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Species identification of Malassezia using culture-dependent methods is time-consuming due to their fastidious growth requirements. This study aimed to evaluate a rapid and accurate molecular method in order to diagnose the pityriasis versicolor (PV) and identify Malassezia species from direct clinical samples.Materils and Methods: Skin scraping or tape samples from patients with PV and healthy volunteers as the control group were collected. Diagnosis of PV was confirmed by direct microscopic examination. The DNA extraction was performed according to the steel bullet beating method. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay using HhaI restriction enzyme was applied for the identification and differentiation of Malassezia species.Results: The PCR method was able to detect Malassezia in 92.1% of specimens which were also confirmed with microscopic examination. Statistically, a significant association was observed between the results of the two assays (P ˂ 0.001). Moderate agreement was identified between the two methods to diagnose the PV in both populations (Kappa: 0.55). Considering microscopic examination as the gold standard method for confirmation of PV, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value values of the PCR assay for recognition of PV were 85%, 75%, 92%, and 60%, respectively. M. globosa and M. restricta were the most prevalent species isolated from patients.Conclusion: In this study, the two-step molecular method based on the amplification of the D1/D2 domain and digestion of the PCR product by one restriction enzyme was able to diagnose and identify Malassezia directly from clinical samples. Consequently, it can be said that the molecular-based method provides more facilities to identify fastidious species, such as M. restricta.

BACKGROUND: Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial mycosis, with a cosmopolitan distribution, more prevalent in tropical climates, caused by Malassezia spp, a lipophilic fungus, which colonizes seborrheic body areas. Adolescents and young adults are mostly affected, being infrequent in children and exceptional in infants. It is characterized by hypochromic, hyperchromic, or erythematous macules, typically located on the upper trunk, shoulders, and neck, but in infants, the face is most affected. Other rare variants have been described. Diagnosis is clinical or microbiological and, despite successful treatment, recurrence is the rule, so it is necessary to avoid precipitating factors and to give prophylactic therapy. CLINICAL CASES: This paper describes the cases of four minor infants: three with lesions on the forehead (two hypochromic, one erythematous), the other with hypochromic lesions on the back, papuloid variety; and 2 adolescents, one immunocompetent with generalized hypochromic lesions (atypical distribution), vitiligoid variant, and the other with acute lymphocytic leukemia, with hyperchromic lesions in typical distribution. The clinical diagnosis was supported by Wood's light and direct examination. Topical treatment was indicated, combining systemic therapy in one case and antifungal prophylaxis in all. CONCLUSIONS: Generalized involvement was found in an immunocompetent patient, which usually occurs in immunosuppressed patients. The chromatic variants and some of the morphological and topographic variants described in this disease could be seen in the cases presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This narrative review presents a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and management of pityriasis versicolor (PV), a common superficial fungal infection caused by the yeast Malassezia. PV is characterised by scaly hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches, primarily affecting the upper trunk, neck, and upper arms. Regarding commensal interactions, Malassezia utilises nutrient sources without affecting the human host. In cases of pathogenicity, Malassezia can directly harm the host via virulence factors or toxins, or indirectly by triggering damaging host responses. The diagnosis typically relies on recognising characteristic clinical features. Due to the wide variability in its clinical presentation, recognising the differential diagnosis is critical. In this paper, we discuss the clinical differentials, with their dermatoscopic presentation, but also describe a range of helpful diagnostic techniques (microscopy, conventional and ultraviolet-induced fluorescence dermatoscopy, and confocal microscopy). Topical therapies are the primary treatment for PV, encompassing non-specific antifungal agents like sulphur with salicylic acid, selenium sulphide 2.5%, and zinc pyrithione. Additionally, specific topical antifungal medications with either fungicidal or fungistatic properties may also be incorporated into the topical treatment regimen, such as imidazoles, allylamines, and ciclopirox olamine. Systemic therapies might occasionally be used. Patient education and the promotion of good personal hygiene are pivotal to reduce the risk of recurrence. In recurrent cases, particularly during warmer and more humid periods, prolonged prophylaxis with topical agents should be considered.

Although the fungal microbiome in human skin mainly comprises lipophilic yeasts, including Malassezia species, these microorganisms can cause various dermatitis conditions, including pityriasis versicolor, seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis, and atopic dermatitis, depending on the host condition. Both Malassezia globosa and Malassezia restricta are major species implicated in Malassezia-related dermatitis. However, the pathogenicity of these microorganisms has not been revealed at the genetic level owing to the lack of a genetic recombination system. Therefore, we developed a gene recombination system for M. globosa using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated gene transfer of the target gene FKB1, which encodes the FKBP12 protein that binds the calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus. The wild-type strain of M. globosa was sensitive to tacrolimus, whereas the FKB1 deletion mutant was resistant to tacrolimus. Reintroduction of FKB1 into the FKB1 deletion mutant restored wild-type levels of susceptibility to tacrolimus. Moreover, an FKB1-eGFP fusion gene was generated and expression of this fusion protein was observed in the cytoplasm. This newly developed gene recombination system for M. globosa will help further our understanding of the pathogenesis of M. globosa-related dermatitis at the genetic level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest Dr Lipner has served as a consultant for Ortho-Dermatologics, Eli Lilly, Moberg Pharmaceuticals, and Belle Torus Corporation. Drs Gold and Benedict have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract Aiming at disclosing the semiotic method used in the diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor, the authors go through the history of the creation of Zirelí sign, describing the method, its usefulness and practicality in dermatological clinical practice, whether public or private, and to give credit to the author of this semiological maneuver, in memoriam.

Abstract Background Red scrotum syndrome is typically described as well-demarcated erythema of the anterior scrotum accompanied by persistent itching and burning. It is chronic and difficult to treat and contributes to significant psychological distress and reduction in quality of life. The medical literature surrounding the condition is sparse, with the prevalence likely under-recognized and the pathophysiology remaining poorly understood. Formation of a cutaneous microbial biofilm has not been proposed as an underlying etiology. Microbial biofilms can form whenever microorganisms are suspended in fluid on a surface for a prolonged time and are becoming increasingly recognized as important contributors to medical disease (e.g., chronic wounds). Case presentation A 26-year-old man abruptly developed well-demarcated erythema of the bilateral scrotum after vaginal secretions were left covering the scrotum overnight. For 14 months, the patient experienced daily scrotal itching and burning while seeking care from multiple physicians and attempting numerous failed therapies. He eventually obtained complete symptomatic relief with the twice daily application of 0.8% menthol powder. Findings in support of a cutaneous microbial biofilm as the underlying etiology include: (1) the condition began following a typical scenario that would facilitate biofilm formation; (2) the demarcation of erythema precisely follows the scrotal hairline, suggesting that hair follicles acted as scaffolding during biofilm formation; (3) despite resolution of symptoms, the scrotal erythema has persisted, unchanged in boundary 15 years after the condition began; and (4) the erythematous skin demonstrates prolonged retention of gentian violet dye in comparison with adjacent unaffected skin, suggesting the presence of dye-avid material on the skin surface. Conclusion The probability that microorganisms, under proper conditions, can form biofilm on intact skin is poorly recognized. This case presents a compelling argument for a cutaneous microbial biofilm as the underlying cause of red scrotum syndrome in one patient, and a review of similarities with other reported cases suggests the same etiology is likely responsible for a significant portion of the total disease burden. This etiology may also be a significant contributor to the disease burden of vulvodynia, a condition with many similarities to red scrotum syndrome.

Tinea versicolor (TV) is typically an asymptomaticfungal infection of the stratum corneum owingto Malassezia overgrowth. It presents as hypoorhyperpigmented macules with fine scale thatcoalesce into patches on the trunk, neck, and/or arms.Presented in this report is a 34-year-old man with aninteresting case of folliculocentric tinea versicolormanifesting as perifollicular hypopigmented maculeson the lower back.

Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial mycosis caused by lipophilic yeasts when they change to their mycelial or filamentous form, more frequent in young adults; however, it must be suspected when it occurs in children who live in humid, tropical areas or with a history of immunocompromise (stay in neonatal intensive care unit) affecting the face (cheeks and forehead) in its hypochromic variety (more frequently). The diagnosis is clinical, and we can rely on dermoscopy and Wood's light in the absence of light microscopy. The treatment of choice is topical with imidazoles in a preferred drying vehicle, and shampoo with antifungal agents. Systemic treatment is reserved for recurrent cases or lack of response to topical treatment, as well as dissemination, with fluconazole of choice. For the success of the treatment, we must emphasize risk factors and prophylaxis because recurrences are frequent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Red scrotum syndrome is typically described as well-demarcated erythema of the anterior scrotum accompanied by persistent itching and burning. It is chronic and difficult to treat and contributes to significant psychological distress and reduction in quality of life. The medical literature surrounding the condition is sparse, with the prevalence likely under-recognized and the pathophysiology remaining poorly understood. Formation of a cutaneous microbial biofilm has not been proposed as an underlying etiology. Microbial biofilms can form whenever microorganisms are suspended in fluid on a surface for a prolonged time and are becoming increasingly recognized as important contributors to medical disease (e.g., chronic wounds). Case presentation: A 26-year-old man abruptly developed well-demarcated erythema of the bilateral scrotum after vaginal secretions were left covering the scrotum overnight. For 14 months, the patient experienced daily scrotal itching and burning while seeking care from multiple physicians and attempting numerous failed therapies. He eventually obtained complete symptomatic relief with the twice daily application of 0.8% menthol powder. Findings in support of a cutaneous microbial biofilm as the underlying etiology include: (1) the condition began following a typical scenario that would facilitate biofilm formation; (2) the demarcation of erythema precisely follows the scrotal hairline, suggesting that hair follicles acted as scaffolding during biofilm formation; (3) despite resolution of symptoms, the scrotal erythema has persisted, unchanged in boundary 15 years after the condition began; and (4) the erythematous skin demonstrates prolonged retention of gentian violet dye in comparison with adjacent unaffected skin, suggesting the presence of dye-avid material on the skin surface. Conclusion: The probability that microorganisms, under proper conditions, can form biofilm on intact skin is poorly recognized. This case presents a compelling argument for a cutaneous microbial biofilm as the underlying cause of red scrotum syndrome in one patient, and a review of similarities with other reported cases suggests the same etiology is likely responsible for a significant portion of the total disease burden. This etiology may also be a significant contributor to the disease burden of vulvodynia, a condition with many similarities to red scrotum syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mahesh Mathur,* Prakash Acharya,* Alina Karki, Nisha KC, Jyoti ShahDepartment of Dermatology, College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur, Nepal*These authors contributed equally to this workBackground: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is essentially a clinical diagnosis characterized by hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches on the skin. Dermoscopy is gaining popularity as a noninvasive procedure for the diagnosis of different pigmentary and inflammatory disorders. However, scarce evidence exists on the dermoscopic pattern of PV.Objective: To describe the dermoscopic features of hypopigmented and hyperpigmented lesions of PV.Methods: Dermoscopic images of PV lesions located on different body sites were retrospectively evaluated for the presence of predefined criteria.Results: A total of 178 lesions from 125 patients were included in the study among which 164 lesions were hypopigmented and 14 lesions were hyperpigmented. Nonuniform pigmentation was the most common dermoscopic feature seen in both hypopigmented lesions (n=152, 92.68%) and hyperpigmented lesions (n=14, 100%). Scales were seen in 142 hypopigmented lesions (86.56%) and 13 hyperpigmented lesions (92.86%). Patchy scaling was more common in hypopigmented lesions (n=95, 57.92%) while scaling in the furrows was more common in the dermoscopy of hyperpigmented lesions (n=5, 35.71%). Inconspicuous ridges and furrows and perilesional hyperpigmentation were other significant features seen in dermoscopy of the lesions.Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study describing the dermoscopic features of PV in such a large number of patients. Description of these new features adds valuable information and may help to establish dermoscopy as an important auxiliary tool for the diagnosis of PV.Keywords: dermoscopy, dermatoscopy, tinea versicolor, diagnosis, hypopigmented patches

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a superficial mycosis caused by Malassezia yeast; a lipophilic fungus. Dermoscopy may be a value addition in the diagnosis of PV in some cases, where results of KOH (potassium hydroxide) examination are ambiguous. There is paucity of Indian data on dermoscopy of PV. Materials and Methods: Thirty consecutive patients diagnosed clinically with pityriasis versicolor were recruited in this pilot cross sectional study.Patients were subjected to KOH mount of the skin scrapings from the lesions which were positive in all the patients.Dermoscopy was performed in all using Universal Serial Bus (USB) dermoscope [Dinolite AMZT 73915, Edge 3] and features were recorded for analysis. Results: Hypopigmented variant was the most common type (80%). Dermoscopic analysis revealed altered pigmentary network as most common finding (100%) followed by scaling seen in 25 cases (83.33%). Folliculocentric pattern was appreciated in 20 cases (66.67%). A characteristic contrast halo ring around the primary altered pigmentation was observed in 20 cases (66.67%). Invasion of hair follicles by yeast was evident in 6 patients (20%). Conclusion: Dermoscopy with characteristic features such as folliculocentricity, contrast halo sign, and yeast invasion of hair follicles can be a very useful aid in contributing towards diagnosing pityriasis versicolor.

Introduction: Pityriasis Versicolor (PV) a commonly encountered superficial mycosis is a mild, chronic infection of the stratum corneum. Malassezia species are lipid dependent yeast that are commonly found on human skin and associated with PV and dandruff. Aim: To study the distribution of Malassezia species in cases of PV and Dandruff. Materials and Methods: A tertiary care rural hospital based cross-sectional study was undertaken. Skin scrapings were collected and cultured on Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar (SDA) overlaid with olive oil and modified Dixon agar (mDA). The isolates were identified by biochemical tests. Data was analysed using the Chi-square test. The p-value of

Introduction: Pityriasis Versicolor (PV) a commonly encountered superficial mycosis is a mild, chronic infection of the stratum corneum. Malassezia species are lipid dependent yeast that are commonly found on human skin and associated with PV and dandruff. Aim: To study the distribution of Malassezia species in cases of PV and Dandruff. Materials and Methods: A tertiary care rural hospital based cross-sectional study was undertaken. Skin scrapings were collected and cultured on Sabouraud's Dextrose Agar (SDA) overlaid with olive oil and modified Dixon agar (mDA). The isolates were identified by biochemical tests. Data was analysed using the Chi-square test. The p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the 127 samples of PV, 38.2% were 10% KOH positive. A total of 76 yielded growth. The most common isolate was M.sympodialis (53.06%), followed by M.furfur (26.53%), M.globosa (16.33%) and M.slooffiae (4.08%). Of the 51 cases of dandruff cases, 27 samples yielded growth and the most common isolate was M.sympodialis (62.96%), followed by M.furfur (25.93%), M.globosa (11.11%). Conclusion: PV and dandruff are the common surface infections in this rural region and Malassezia sympodialis is the commonest species associated with these conditions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]