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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., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

In spite of the increasing medical interest in Malassezia yeasts, the virulence factors of Malassezia furfur causing bloodstream infections (BSI) were never investigated. Therefore, phospholipase (Pz), lipase (Lz), hemolysin (Hz), biofilm production, and in vitro antifungal susceptibility profiles were evaluated in M. furfur strains, isolated from both pityriasis versicolor (PV) patients (n = 18; Group 1) or from preterm infants BSI (n = 21; Group 2). All the test stains exhibited Pz activity, whereas 92.3% and 97.4% of strains exhibited Lz and Hz activities, respectively. Pz, Lz, and Hz activities were higher (i.e., lower values) within Group 1 strains (i.e., 0.48, 0.40, and 0.77) than those within Group 2 (i.e., 0.54, 0.54, and 0.81). The biofilm production was higher within Malassezia isolates from Group 2 (0.95 ± 0.3) than from Group 1 (0.72 ± 0.4). Itraconazole and posaconazole were the most active drugs against M. furfur, followed by amphotericin B and fluconazole. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) values varied according to the origin of M. furfur strains being statistically lower in M. furfur from Group 1 than from Group 2. This study suggests that M. furfur strains produce hydrolytic enzymes and biofilm when causing PV and BSI. Data show that the phospholipase activity, biofilm production, and a reduced antifungal susceptibility profile might favor M. furfur BSI, whereas lipase and hemolytic activities might display a synergic role in skin infection., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The International Society for Human and Animal Mycology.)

Background: The genus Malassezia represents the dominant eukaryotic component of the skin microbial flora. There are complex interactions between this commensal and the skin, leading to various Malassezia-caused or Malassezia exacerbated skin conditions., Objectives: To identify Malassezia species in lesions of patients with pityriasis versicolor (PV), atopic dermatitis (AD), and seborrheic dermatitis (SD), as well as corresponding sites in healthy subjects according to the culture methods used for Malassezia species isolation., Methods: Scrapings were collected from 80 patients (40 PV, 20 AD, and 20 SD) and 30 healthy subjects. For 10-14 days, specimens were cultured on Dixon's medium and Malt extract agar. Direct microscopic examination with Gram's stain, subculture on Hi chrome agar, Dixon's medium at various temperatures, Tweens assimilation, and hydrolysis of tryptophan were used for the identification of yeast isolates., Results: The isolation frequency of Malassezia species in healthy subjects was 13.3% for M. furfur, 10.0% for M. globosa, and 3.3% for M.sympodialis. In patients with SD, M. furfur was isolated more frequently from scalp lesions (25.0%) and then M. sympodialis (15%) and M. globosa (10%). Malassezia sympodialis was the most prevalent isolated species in AD lesions (20%), followed by M. furfur (10%). Malassezia species isolation was found to be most prevalent in PV lesions, with M. furfur being the most prevalent identified species (52.5 %), followed by unidentified species (20%)., Conclusions: Malassezia species composition was similar in PV, SD, and healthy subjects, with M. furfur being the commonest isolate, while Malassezia sympodialis was the prevalent species isolated in AD lesions. Chrome agar media can be promising for the identification of Malassezia species phenotypically. However, species differentiation has to be complemented by molecular methods., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors have no conflict of interest to declare, (Copyright © 2022 SFMM. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

We describe a case series of seven children presenting with pityriasis versicolor on the face, localized to the area of coverage by the mask. The increased use of face masks after the opening up of schools, combined with a humid environment and associated sweating might be responsible for an increased presentation of facial pityriasis versicolor in children in our community., (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Malassezia (M.) genus includes commensal yeasts of increasing medical importance, as they result in many diseases, ranging from pityriasis versicolor (PV) to systemic infections. Previous studies reported geographical variations in distribution of Malassezia species in PV lesions. The aims of the current study were to define the clinico-demographic features of PV in Tunisia, to characterize Malassezia isolates using phenotypic and molecular techniques and to find out any association between species and clinico-demographic parameters. In total, 120 PV patients were enrolled in this study. Skin scrapings were collected and inoculated on Sabouraud agar and modified Dixon medium. Malassezia species were identified using conventional phenotypic methods and 26 s rDNA PCR-RFLP. The highest prevalence of PV was observed among young adults' group. The most affected body areas were the back and neck. In overall, 50.8% and 35% of PV cases had pruritus and history of recurrence respectively. The overall concordance between phenotypic and molecular methods was high (80.95%). The discordant results are rather due to the presence of multiple species in a single culture than true misidentification. Using PCR-RFLP, M. furfur was the most isolated species (38.7%) followed by M. globosa (37.7%), M. restricta and M. sympodialis. No statistically significant association was noted between Malassezia spp. and clinico-demographic characteristics. Unlike many reports from temperate climate countries, M. furfur and M. globosa along together were the most frequently isolated species in Tunisian PV patients. Although phenotypic methods remain simple and cost-effective, molecular techniques are considered as fast and accurate methods for diagnosis purposes., (Copyright © 2022 SFMM. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Introduction. Malassezia folliculitis (MF) and pityriasis versicolor (PV) are common dermatoses caused by Malassezia species. Their molecular epidemiology, drug susceptibility and exoenzymes are rarely reported in China. Aim. To investigate the molecular epidemiology, drug susceptibility and enzymatic profile of Malassezia clinical isolates. Methodology. Malassezia strains were recovered from MF and PV patients and healthy subjects (HS) and identified by sequencing analysis. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of nine antifungals (posaconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, bifonazole, terbinafine and caspofungin) and tacrolimus, the interactions between three antifungals (itraconazole, ketoconazole and terbinafine) and tacrolimus, and the extracellular enzyme profile were evaluated using broth and checkerboard microdilution and the Api-Zym system, respectively. Results. Among 392 Malassezia isolates from 729 subjects (289 MF, 218 PV and 222 HS), Malassezia furfur and Malassezia globosa accounted for 67.86 and 18.88 %, respectively. M. furfur was the major species in MF and PV patients and HS. Among 60 M . furfur and 50 M . globosa strains, the MICs for itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole and ketoconazole were <1 μg ml -1 . M. furfur was more susceptible to itraconazole, terbinafine and bifonazole but tolerant to miconazole compared with M. globosa ( P <0.05). Synergistic effects between terbinafine and itraconazole or between tacrolimus and itraconazole, ketoconazole or terbinafine occurred in 6, 7, 6 and 9 out of 37 strains, respectively. Phosphatases, lipases and proteases were mainly secreted in 51 isolates. Conclusions. Itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole and ketoconazole are theagents against which there is greatest susceptibility. Synergistic effects between terbinafine and itraconazole or tacrolimas and antifungals may be irrelevant to clinical application. Overproduction of lipases could enhance the skin inhabitation of M. furfur .

Background: Pityriasis versicolor is a frequent pathology in Paraguay; however, its epidemiology is unknown., Aim: To determine the frequency of Malassezia species causing pityriasis versicolor and the epidemiological characteristics of the population., Methods: Samples from patients with a presumptive diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor were collected. Laboratory diagnosis was carried out by fresh examination and culture in modified Dixon agar and chromogenic Chromagar Malassezia®, incubated at 32° C, and identification by macro and micromorphological features, biochemical and physiological tests., Results: 102 patients were included (51% female) from 1 month to 63 years of age, the predominant age group was 11-20 years (35.3%). The most frequent location was on the back (60.8%). Hipocromic clinical forms (48%) predominated. The most frequent species was M. globosa (52.9%), followed by M. furfur (24.5%), M. sympodialis (18.6%) and M. slooffiae (6.9%)., Conclusions: The observed epidemiology is similar to other South American studies, with no sex distinction, predominantly hypochromic clinical form and as primary responsible species appears M. globosa. This is the first report on species causing pityriasis versicolor in Paraguay and the characteristics of the affected population.

Background: Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous gland, and the most common dermatosis in adolescents globally. Infectious dermatoses are common in the tropics, but due to the paucity of epidemiologic surveys, not much is known about the prevalence and common types found in different sub-populations including adolescents. It is however presumed that the prevalence will be high and the pattern diverse. We therefore conducted a school-based survey to ascertain the prevalence and pattern of infectious dermatoses, infestations, and papular urticaria (insect bite reactions) in teenage adolescents in Calabar, Nigeria., Methods: A cross sectional observational survey of adolescents aged 13-19 years attending randomly selected secondary schools in Calabar, Nigeria. It involved the use of questionnaires and subsequent whole body examination., Results: A total of 1447 senior secondary school students were examined. Infectious dermatoses, infestations, and papular urticaria (IDIP) were observed in 505 (34.9%) persons, among whom were 269 (53.3%) males, and 236 (46.7%) females (X 2 =34.87, p=<0.001). Fungal dermatoses constituted more than 90% of the diseases, the bulk of which was contributed by pityriasis versicolor [430 (79.6%)]. The six most common dermatoses in descending order of frequencies were Pityriasis versicolor, tinea, papular urticaria, candidiasis, furuncles, and viral warts., Conclusion: A high prevalence of cutaneous infections exists among teenage adolescents in Calabar, Nigeria. Males have a higher predisposition to fungal dermatoses. Control of the predominant cause of cutaneous infections - pityriasis versicolor, will significantly affect the prevalence of infectious dermatoses, and invariably, the burden of skin disorders in adolescents in Calabar, Nigeria., Funding: Self sponsored., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: None declared, (Copyright © The Author(s).)

Background: Skin diseases are common and often have an impact on an individual's health-related quality of life. In rural communities where access to healthcare may be limited and individuals rely on farming for food and income, the impact of skin diseases may be greater. The objectives for this study were to perform an assessment of skin disease prevalence in a rural village in Laos and assess the associated impact of any skin disease found using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)., Methods: A rural village was purposively selected and 340 participants examined by dermatologists over a four day period. Brief questionnaires were performed, followed by full body skin examinations and DLQI questionnaires completed were relevant. The data were analysed using chi square and Wilcoxon signed rank tests., Results: One hundred and eighty-one participants were found to have a skin disease (53%). The six most common skin diseases were: eczema (22%), dermatophyte infections (19%), acne (10%), scabies infestation (9%), melasma (8%) and pityriasis versicolor (4%). Just over half of those with skin disease (51%) completed the DLQI, with scores ranging from 0 to 24. Those with skin problems on examination were significantly more likely to be farmers, have had a previous skin problem, be older or live in a smaller family. Conclusions This study represents the first formal documentation of skin disease prevalence in Laos and establishes the high rate of skin disease in the rural community and the associated impact these diseases have on health-related quality of life.

Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a superficial mycosis caused by yeast of the genus Malassezia. The most common isolated Malassezia species in PV lesions differ among M. furfur, M. globosa and M. sympodialis. We purpose to determine the distribution of Malassezia species in PV patients at the seafarers' medical service in Dakar, Senegal and to examine whether any association between identified Malassezia species and patients' profile. From May 2017 to August 2017, first a questionnaire was filled to get informative data before collection of skin scrapings taken from most scaly site using sterile scalpel blade and application of scotch ® for direct examination (DE). At the laboratory, DE, culture and identification by MALDI-TOF MS were done. One hundred patients with PV - all men - were included with a mean age of 34 years. Among seafarers, 81% were sailors. Clinical prevalence of PV was highest in aged adults patients with ages of 31 to 60 years (56%). Seafarers with high level of education were less representative with only 2%. The mean duration of the PV was 26.83 months. 20% of subjects suffered lesions in more than one location. The chest was the most affected anatomical site. Furthermore, possible predisposing factors associated with PV were also detected. DE was positive in 95% but culture growth only in 46%. MALDI-TOF MS analysis of the positive cultures could be performed in 84.8% (39/46). Only M. furfur was identified in 100% (39/39). In definitive, M. furfur is the only causative agent of PV in Dakar., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background: Prevalence of skin diseases in Luanda (Angola) is unknown, and publications are barely found in the literature. We aim to describe, for the first time, the frequency of skin disease spectrum in phototype V-VI Angolan population in Luanda City., Methods: We included Fitzpatrick phototype V-VI Angolan patients who consulted the Dermatology Unit in Luanda Medical Center during a 1-year period. Medical information was recovered from the electronic database, and diagnoses were based on ICD-10. Only the main complaint was registered, and the results were classified according to age and sex. Criteria exclusion consisted of incomplete clinical records, Fitzpatrick phototype I-IV Angolan, or foreign patients from the study., Results: From a total of 3938 patients, 3554 met the inclusion criteria, of which 2742 were adults 13 years or older. In this group, acne (23.6%), dermatophytosis (11.0%), and pityriasis versicolor (8.6%) were the main complaints. On the other hand, in the pediatric population (n = 812), atopic dermatitis (29.4%), tinea capitis (13.7%), and molluscum contagiosum (12.5%) were the most frequent disorders. In adult females, acne (31.3%) was the main condition, while in adult males, dermatophytosis (13.5%). In children, the frequency of atopic dermatitis was comparable: 29.1% and 28.6% in girls and boys, respectively., Conclusions: We published for the first time the frequency of the skin disease spectrum in Fitzpatrick phototype V-VI Angolan population in Luanda City, highlighting the prevalence of acne, dermatophytosis, and atopic dermatitis., (© 2018 The International Society of Dermatology.)

Background: Malassezia species, usually part of normal human skin microbiota, may also cause cutaneous infections, mainly pityriasis versicolor (PV) which may rapidly spread in crowded communities, particularly in students' dormitories and sport leisure centers., Objective: Few studies have been conducted on PV in students in the Middle East. The present study was designed to determine prevalence of Malassezia species and related diseases in students from city of Sabzevar, Northeast Iran., Methods: Specimens were collected from 189 students and analyzed by direct microscopy and cultures. Following PCR amplification of the large subunit of ribosomal DNA, species were identified by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (RFL-PCR)., Results: PV was suspected for 28 students which was confirmed by direct examination and cultures. Cultures also revealed positive for 13 students with healthy skin. Four Malassezia species were identified, with M. restricta as the most prevalent. A higher rate of PV was observed compared to other regions in Iran. However, despite the lipophilic feature of Malassezia species, no significant association was observed between PV or Malassezia species and fatty skin or gender., Conclusion: This study determined the frequencies of Malassezia species in part of Northeast Iran, but further studies are needed to identify risk factors for PV., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

There are differences with respect to the commonly isolated Malassezia species, not only between healthy individuals and the patients with various skin diseases, but also between different countries. We investigated the species composition of Malassezia microflora on the skin of patients with Malassezia-associated diseases and of healthy subjects (HS). Two hundred and fifty skin scrapings from patients with pityriasis versicolor (PV), seborrheic dermatitis (SD), atopic dermatitis (AD), psoriasis (PS), and healthy subjects (HS), fifty each, were inoculated into Sabouraud dextrose agar and into modified Dixon agar and identified using conventional culture-based methods. In PV and PS lesions, the most common species was M. globosa (62% and 52%, respectively), while M. restricta was predominant in SD lesions (28%). M. sympodialis was the most common species recovered from AD (52%) and healthy trunk skin (30%). Fewer cultures were positive for Malassezia growth in patients with AD than in patients with other skin conditions, and even in controls. Our data are in agreement with other studies and suggest that the pathogenic species of PV is M. globosa. The evidence that any given species is clinically important in the pathogenicity of SD, AD and PS is still lacking.

Background: Geographical variation in the distribution of Malassezia species associated with pityriasis versicolor (PV) has led to the necessity of studying epidemiological, mycological, and clinical characteristics of PV., Aims: To study the epidemiological, mycological, and clinical characteristics of PV in a tertiary care hospital., Settings and Design: The study was carried out with a cross-sectional design., Materials and Methods: Two hundred and sixty-two consecutive PV patients were subjected to detailed history, clinical examination, and investigations. Skin scrapings were processed by direct microscopy and culture. Isolates were identified by phenotypic characteristics and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Association of Malassezia species with clinical and epidemiological characteristics was studied. Statistical analysis of the data was done using statistical software., Results: Maximum number of PV cases (33.9%) belonged to the age group of 21-30 years with a male preponderance. 61.4% of the patients had a sedentary lifestyle, 70.2% showed the gradual onset of the disease, 51.1% presented with pruritus and in 66.4% of the patients symptoms were continuous. Most commonly involved body site was neck (27.8%), 77.09% of the lesions were bilaterally asymmetrical, 87.4% were macular, and 89.3% were hypopigmented. Malassezia furfur (77.3%) was the predominant species. Sedentary lifestyle (61.4%) and increased sweating (48%) were the most commonly associated predisposing factors., Conclusion: PV is more common in males. Distribution of Malassezia species varies significantly from those reported in other parts of India. M. furfur was the most common species responsible for PV in our region. Hence, further studies are required to evaluate the exact cause of this variation.

Dermatophytes are keratinophilic fungi that infect keratinized tissues causing diseases known as dermatophytoses. Dermatophytes are classified in three genera, Epidermophyton, Microsporum, and Trichophyton. This investigation was performed to study the prevalence of dermatomycosis among 640 patients being evaluated at the dermatology clinics at Kasr elainy, El-Husein and Said Galal hospitals in Cairo and Giza between January 2005 and December 2006. The patients were checked for various diseases. Tinea capitis was the most common clinical disease followed by tinea pedis and tinea corporis. Tinea cruris and tinea unguium were the least in occurrence. Tinea versicolor also was detected. The most susceptible persons were children below 10 years followed by those aged 31-40 years. Unicellular yeast was the most common etiological agent and T. tonsuranswas the second most frequent causative agent followed by M. canis.

Pityriasis versicolor is the most common of the diseases caused by Malassezia yeasts. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of pityriasis versicolor and its etiological aspects in the metropolitan area of Porto Alegre, Brazil. A retrospective cross-sectional study with data from patients of a reference hospital from 1996 to 2011 was performed. Collected data included: date, age, gender, ethnicity, anatomical region of lesion and the direct mycological examination results. Among the positive results in the direct mycological examination, 5.8% (2,239) were positive for pityriasis versicolor. The angular coefficient (B) was -0.3%/year, showing a decrease over the years. The disease was more prevalent in men (7.1% of men versus 5.1% of women that underwent the direct mycological examination); younger age (median 31 years old); "pardo" and black people (3.7% more than expected in the sample); trunk (73.44% of the affected anatomic sites). Lesions in rare sites (groin, genitals, legs, feet and hands) were also observed in this study. In conclusion, due to the decrease in the prevalence of pityriasis versicolor, long-term epidemiological studies in the metropolitan area of Porto Alegre, Brazil, are needed to continue the monitoring of this disease.

Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a common superficial fungal infection of the skin caused by Malassezia. Initially M. furfur was suggested as its main aetiological agent; however, more recent studies suggest M. globosa as the dominant species. The possibility of a variance in predominant species based on geographical basis has not been fully evaluated. The objective of this study was to identify the Malassezia species on affected and non-affected skin of students with PV who reside in a tropical environment (Abuja, Nigeria) and correlate them to clinical characteristics. In this study, the literature on prevalence of Malassezia genus in PV was also reviewed. Samples were taken from 304 PV lesions and 110 normal appearing skin. Microscopy, culture and identification of Malassezia species utilising polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis were performed. Three Malassezia species were detected in PV with the major species being M. furfur. On normal appearing skin, M. furfur (77.6%) and M. restricta (10.4%) were both detected. No case of M. globosa was identified in this study. There was no significant difference between species identified and clinical features of PV. M. furfur is probably still the most predominant species causing PV in the tropical environment., (© 2015 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Pityriasis versicolor is a common superficial mycotic disease of the skin which is caused by different species of Malassezia genus. The aim of this study was to contribute to the knowledge of the aetiology of pityriasis versicolor (PV) with a mycological study made according to the new species and additionally, the success of the different sampling techniques, duration and recurrence history of the disease, distribution of infecting strains according to the affected body sites were also investigated. In total, 146 patients with pityriasis versicolor were included in this study. Fungal elements could only be visualized by potassium hydroxide examination in 36.4% of the samples. Specimens obtained by scraping skin surface by a sterile scalpel and/or sterile sticky plaster (OpSite) were inoculated in plates containing modified Dixon's medium. Out of 146 samples, 109 (74.7%) yielded a growth which was considered to be Malassezia spp. in culture. Species level identification of suspicious Malassezia yeasts was made according to their macroscopic and microscopic features, and their physiological characteristics. Among the identified species, Malassezia globosa (65.1%) was the most commonly isolated species, followed by Malassezia obtusa (17.4%). However, four Malassezia isolates could not be identified at species level with conventional methods. While most of the patients suffered their first episode of pityriasis versicolor (76%), back of the trunk was the mostly affected body site (39%). In conclusion, Malassezia globosa was found to be the predominant species in pityriasis versicolor patients in our region, and culture of the specimen is necessary for the epidemiologic purposes., (Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)

In this article, we review the salient features of tinea versicolor and describe the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and histopathology of this mycosis in dark-skinned individuals. Tinea versicolor is caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia genus. It manifests clinically as asymptomatic hypopigmented macules, hyperpigmented macules, or a combination of the two. Under light microscopy, Malassezia presents as a dimorphic fungus - in both the hyphal and yeast form. Most clinicians have found that the majority of dark-skinned patients present solely with hypopigmented lesions. Under light microscopy, lesions on dark skin involved with tinea versicolor tend to have a thicker stratum corneum, more tonofilaments in the granulosum, and more sequestered melanosomes. Differential diagnosis includes confluent and reticulated papillomatosis, seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis rosea, pityriasis alba, and vitiligo. Tinea versicolor can be successfully managed in most cases with topical antifungal treatments. Cases of recurrence, such as those seen in immunocompromised patients, may necessitate scheduled oral or topical therapy., (© 2013 The International Society of Dermatology.)

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is an infection caused by various species of Malassezia yeast. There is no agreement in the literature concerning the species of Malassezia and the demographic, clinical, and mycological data., Aims: To prospectively identify Malassezia species isolated from lesions of patients with extensive, long standing and recurrent forms of PV and to estimate the relationship between Malassezia species and the demographic and clinical data of the patients., Methods: All patients with PV were enrolled over a four-year period. Malassezia species were isolated in cultures and identified by morphological features and physiological tests. In the last 2 years a PCR-based technique was used to confirm the species' identification., Results: A total of 74 patients (43 males and 31 females, mean age 39.5 years) were enrolled. Only one species was isolated in 45 patients, and more than one species were identified in the remaining 28 patients (38%). M. globosa was the most frequently isolated (60.3%) species. There was a significant association between the isolation of 2 or more species and the presence of at least one predisposing factor. In the last 29 cases, which were subjected to PCR, there were no differences in the identification of isolated species as compared to traditional methods., Conclusions: The isolation of more than one species in a single lesion is not infrequent in PV and is related to the presence of one predisposing factor. The isolated species isolated were not influenced by demographic and clinical features. The traditional and more recent (PCR) procedures gave the same results in the isolated species., (Copyright © 2012 Revista Iberoamericana de Micología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.)

Various bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral pathogens can cause folliculitis, which is often mistakenly treated with antibiotics for months or even years. A laboratory diagnosis is required before therapy can be planned. Here, we describe the prevalence and risk factors, as well as the clinical, cytological, and mycological characteristics, of patients with Malassezia folliculitis (MF) in Adana, Turkey. We also report the treatment responses of the MF patients and describe the Malassezia spp. using culture-based molecular methods. Cytological examinations were performed in 264 folliculitis patients, 49 of whom (18.5%) were diagnosed with MF. The positivity of the May-Grünwald-Giemsa (MGG) smear was higher (100%) than that of the potassium hydroxide test (81.6%). Using Wood's light, yellow-green fluorescence was observed in 66.7% of the MF patients. Identification using the rDNA internal transcribed spacer region revealed that Malassezia globosa was the most common species, followed by Malassezia sympodialis, Malassezia restricta, and Malassezia furfur. The MF patients were treated with itraconazole capsules (200 mg/d) for 2 weeks. Complete recovery was observed in 79.6% of the patients. These novel findings help improve our current understanding of the epidemiological characteristics of MF and establish MGG as a practical tool for the diagnosis of MF., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a chronic superficial fungal disease caused by Malassezia species. Our aim was to identify Malassezia species from PV patients and healthy individuals in Punjab., Materials and Methods: Modified Dixon agar was used as isolation culture medium. Identification was based on morphological observation and biochemical evaluation. The biochemical evaluation consisted of culture onto Sabouraud dextrose agar, catalase reaction, Tween assimilation, Cremophor EL assimilation, splitting of esculin and growth at 38 0 C., Results: Out of 58 microscopically diagnosed cases of PV, growth was obtained from 54 (93.10%) cases. The most frequently isolated species were M. globosa, M. sympodialis and M. furfur which made up 51.79%, 31.42% and 18.51% of the isolated etiological agents respectively. However, the major isolate from the back of healthy individuals was M. sympodialis (47.61%), followed by M. obtusa (19.04%), M. globosa (14.20%), M. furfur (9.52%), M. pachydermatis (4.76%) and M. slooffiae (4.76%)., Conclusions: M. globosa in its mycelial phase was the main etiological agent, but as normal flora from the back of healthy subjects, it was found in significantly less number (P = 0.01), suggesting that the higher pathogenicity of M. globosa in terms of enzymatic endowment, might be the cause of its predominance in PV lesions.

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a cutaneous pigmentation disorder caused by a lipophilic yeast of the genus Malassezia sp. It is a superficial mycosis characterized by well-defined, slightly scaly skin lesions of variable color. In Brazil, the number of reported cases is small, and there are few epidemiological studies., Objectives: to assess incidence, characteristics of the lesions, effectiveness of the Zileri's Sign procedure, and the epidemiological profile of PV in the urban area of Buerarema - Bahia., Methods: Biological samples were collected on pre-established days at Basic Health Care Units from July to September 2010. Sample collection was followed by laboratory diagnosis using Porto's Method., Results: Of the 158 patients with suspected PV participating in the study, 105 (66.5%) were positive; 72 (68.6%) were female and 33 (31.4%) were male. Sex and location of lesions showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05). The region with the highest rate of cases of PV was found to be the center of the city, with 40.9% of diagnosed cases. The most affected age group was between 10 and 19 years. There was a significant association between the results produced through Zileri's Sign and Porto's Method in relation to positive and negative results (p<0.05)., Conclusions: The results showed a higher prevalence of PV among individuals at puberty. The Zileri's Sign method proved to be counterproductive, because it showed low efficacy as a method for clinical diagnosis, yielding negative results for 36 (34.3%) patients who had been diagnosed with PV through laboratory examination.

Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial infection of the stratum corneum caused by Malassezia yeasts. The cutaneous Malassezia globosa and Malassezia restricta in Sudanese patients with pityriasis versicolor were elucidated using a molecular-based, culture-independent method and compared with that in healthy individuals. Scale samples were collected by applying an Opsite™ transparent dressing to lesional and non-lesional sites on 29 Sudanese patients with pityriasis versicolor and 54 healthy individuals. Malassezia DNA was extracted directly from the samples. The overall level of colonization by Malassezia globosa and Malassezia restricta was analyzed by real-time PCR using a TaqMan probe. The overall level of colonization by Malassezia at the lesional sites was higher than that at the non-lesional sites for all body sites, including the face, neck, cheeks, and trunk (2.7- to 6.0-fold increase). Both M. globosa and M. restricta were detected in patients and healthy individuals. However, M. globosa predominated at lesional sites, whereas the level of colonization by both species was similar in healthy individuals.

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a common superficial fungal infection of the skin caused by Malassezia species. The clinical significance of each of these species is not fully understood. M. furfur has long been identified as the causative agent of PV. Several recent studies suggest that M. globosa is most frequently associated with PV., Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of Malassezia species in affected and unaffected skin in Israeli patients with PV using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based culture-independent method., Methods: Samples were taken from affected skin of 75 patients with PV (35 females and 40 males, age range 18-65 years) who visited our outpatient clinic and from unaffected skin in 26 patients for direct microscopy and detection of Malassezia species using a PCR-based method., Results: The major Malassezia species in PV was M. globosa, found in 97.3% (73 of 75) of samples from affected skin and 80.8% (21 of 26) samples of unaffected skin. M. restricta was associated with M. globosa in 1.3% (one of 75) of patients. No cases of M. furfur were detected in this study. There was no difference in the distribution of Malassezia species between affected and unaffected skin., Conclusion: Based on the PCR test, we have shown that M. globosa is probably most frequently associated with PV., (© 2013 The International Society of Dermatology.)

Anecdotal reports have shown that tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibition may cause unchecked superficial infection with the microorganisms responsible for pityriasis versicolor (PV). We observed several cases of PV, which is frequently resistant to topical therapies, in psoriatic patients undergoing anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibody therapy. To evaluate the incidence and the therapeutic management of PV in this group of individuals, between 1 January and 27 December 2010, we examined 153 psoriatic patients for the hypopigmented/hyperpigmented macular and scaling lesions associated with PV. All patients positive for PV were given topical therapy with miconazole nitrate cream twice daily for 28 days, after which they were re-evaluated. In patients non-responsive to topical therapy, we started systemic therapy with fluconazole, 300 mg week(-1) for 3 weeks. We diagnosed seven cases of PV. At the end of topical treatment, complete healing of lesions was observed in only one patient. In the other six patients, systemic treatment led to complete resolution of the infection. Although the onset of PV during anti-TNF-α therapy is seldom reported, it is not likely to be rare, but rather under-reported because of its limited pathological significance. In our opinion, the therapeutic management of this condition deserves greater consideration, as the use of topical treatments alone is largely ineffective compared with systemic treatment., (© 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Background: Malassezia species are considered opportunistic yeasts of increasing clinical importance. These lipophilic yeasts are associated with various human diseases, especially pityriasis versicolor (PV), a chronic superficial scaling dermatomycosis., Aims: The aim of this study was to isolate, identify and analyze the distribution of the different species of Malassezia in patients with PV in Rosario city (Argentina)., Methods: A total of 264 clinical samples were studied. Isolates were identified on the basis of microscopic observation of cells, and physiological properties, such as the presence of catalase, ability to use Tween compounds, splitting of esculin, and morphology, color and precipitate production on chromogenic agar CHROMagar-Malassezia medium (CHROMM)., Results: The highest prevalence of PV in this study was observed in the 25- to 45-year-old group. No differences were found in the development of PV between sexes. The most affected areas of body were the trunk and face. Malassezia sympodialis (51%) was the most commonly isolated species, followed in frequency by M. globosa (40%), Malassezia furfur (7%), Malassezia obtusa (1%) and Malassezia slooffiae (1%)., Conclusions: The success for a correct identification of these yeasts is important to improve our knowledge about their epidemiological role in PV and also to detect the appearance of strains which are resistant to the commonly used antifungal drugs., (Copyright © 2010 Revista Iberoamericana de Micología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.)

Management of patients with renal failure remains a major problem in poor-resource nations. Cutaneous manifestations in this group of patients are varied and remain helpful in differentiating acute from chronic renal failure (CRF). We studied the prevalence and pattern of skin disorders in patients with CRF at The University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria, during the period between May 2006 and February 2007. Relevant information was collected with the aid of a questionnaire. The patients were then examined for skin disorders. One hundred and twenty patients who met the inclusion criteria were recruited into the study. The mean age of the CRF patients was 43.12 ± 15.38 years, while that of the control subjects was 43.13 ± 15.38 years. Seventy-six of the 120 patients (63.3%) were on chronic hemodialysis while 44 (36.5%) were on conservative management. A total of 107 patients (89.1%) had at least one skin problem. The skin disorders seen include xerosis in 72 (60%), pruritus in 32 (26.7%), hyperpigmentation, icthyosis and pityriasis versicolor in nine patients each (7.5%), either singly or in combination. Pallor of the skin was seen in three of the patients (2.5%), while uremic frost was seen in one (0.8%). Nail changes were seen in 48 patients (40%). We conclude that xerosis, pruritus, pigmentary and nail changes were the most common skin disorders in patients with CRF in our environment.

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (tinea versicolor) is a chronic superficial mycosis caused by yeasts of the Malassezia spp. genus commensal of the keratinized layers of the skin. Under conditions not yet understood, it becomes pathogenic determining the clinical manifestations of the disease. It is a recurrent skin condition and persistent hypopigmentation may remain after treatment, causing social problems to those affected., Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological features of patients diagnosed with tinea versicolor treated at a referral center for dermatology (Alfredo da Matta Foundation)., Methods: Case-studies in which cutaneous manifestations and epidemiological characteristics of patients diagnosed with tinea versicolor treated at Alfredo da Matta Foundation were detailed., Results: One hundred and sixteen patients were included in the study from January to August 2008. Most subjects were male, of mixed ethnicity and young age. Most were students who were predisposed to the development of macules. The majority had extensive injuries and past history of the disease., Conclusion: The results revealed a high proportion of individuals with extensive clinical manifestations and duration of the disease.

The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of Malassezia species in pityriasis versicolor lesions and to examine if the range of species varies with patients characteristics such as: age, sex and family history and also clinical findings such as site and number of the lesions. In a prospective study from July 2006 to July 2007, the patients with a clinical diagnosis of pityriasis versicolor (n = 166) were asked to participate in the study. A total of 116 patients had positive culture for Malassezia species: M. globosa was found in 52 (31.3%) cases, M. furfur in 34 (20.5%) cases, M. pachydermatis in 12 (7.2%) cases, M. restricta in 12 (7.2%) cases, M. slooffiae in 6 (3.6%) cases. According to our data, M. globosa is the main species causing pityriasis versicolor, M. furfur was found to be the second-most frequent species. M. sympodialis and M. obtusa were not found in any case, and in 30.2% of patient's Malassezia culture was negative.

Background: Malassezia species normally colonize the skin but they can change their saprophytic state and invade the stratum corneum as pathogens., Aims: To determine the prevalence of Malassezia species isolated from patients with pityriasis versicolor (PV) and to analyse their distribution according to the location of the lesion on the body., Methods: This study included 218 patients with PV and positive Malassezia cultures who resided in the city of Resistencia, a subtropical area located in northeast Argentina. Age, gender, and the body site of lesions were recorded. Strains were identified by PCR-RFLP., Results: Malassezia sympodialis (37.7%) and Malassezia globosa (37.2%) were the most prevalent species isolated alone or in association with other Malassezia species in 82% of the patients. Malassezia furfur (21.3%) was the third most common species, followed by Malassezia slooffiae (1.7%), and Malassezia restricta (1.3%), which was found only in combination with M. globosa and M. sympodialis. Malassezia dermatis (0.4%) and Malassezia pachydermatis (0.4%) were each isolated once. None of the species affected a body site with statistical significance. Significant difference between genders according to age was found only in the 31-40-year-age group., Conclusions: This study suggests that M. sympodialis and M. globosa represent the main species implicated in the pathogenicity of PV. M. furfur appears to be the third agent of importance in this geographical area. Statistical analyses showed none of the species was particularly associated with any one of the body sites., (Copyright 2009 Revista Iberoamericana de Micología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.)

Background: In the last 10 years, different studies have shown interesting geographical variations in the prevalence of different Malassezia species in pityriasis versicolor., Aim: Identification of Malassezia species isolated from patients with pityriasis versicolor., Methods: In 100 patients with pityriasis versicolor, Malassezia species were identified by culture in Sabouraud's dextrose agar containing cycloheximide with olive oil overlay and modified Dixon agar and by doing biochemical tests (catalase reaction, assimilation of glycine, and Tween utilisation tests)., Results: In 10 patients, 10% KOH smear was negative, while in 90 patients the smear showed characteristic "spaghetti and meatball" appearance. Of these 90 cases, growth was obtained on modified Dixon's agar in 87 cases. Fifty of the isolates (57.5%) were M. globosa, 15 (17.2%) were M. sympodialis, seven (8.0%) were suspected M. sympodialis, 6 (6.9%) each of the isolates were M. furfur and M. obtusa, and three (3.4%) isolates were M. restricta., Conclusion: M. globosa was the most common species, followed by M. sympodialis, M. furfur, M. obtusa, and M. restricta.

Fungi from Malassezia species may be a component of human and animal skin onthocenosis but also may cause general mycoses in patients from high risk groups. The aim of study was the evaluation of some clinic data in patients with tinea versicolor, who entered to Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Centre for Treatment of Parasitic Diseases and Mycoses, Medical University of Lodz. Forty four patients with tinea versicolor were examined. Localization and number of skin lesions as well as eventually risk factor were examined. In all patients mycological examine was done; morphotic elements of fungi in direct and stained slides were found, cultures on solid medium with oil olive were done. In Wood light fluorescence of changed skin was observed. The most incidence of tinea versicolor was observed in young persons to compare with to another age groups. The most frequently localization of clinical lesions concerned back skin, back and chest. In women - to compare with to male patients--clinical lesions on back skin were significantly more frequent. The only one factor was conducived to infection--it was a seborrhea of the skin, observed mainly in patients from the youngest age group.

Pityriasis versicolor is a common superficial mycoses of the skin. It is now recognized that the causative organisms of this infection are different species of Malassezia. The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of Malassezia species in patients with pityriasis versicolor in Adana, Turkey. In total, 97 patients positive for Malassezia elements, namely, yeast cells and short hyphae in microscopic examination, were included in the study. All samples were inoculated in plates containing modified Dixon's medium. However, only 44 of the patients (45.4%) showed Malassezia spp. in culture. Malassezia globosa (47.7%) was the most commonly isolated species followed by Malassezia furfur (36.4%) and Malassezia slooffiae (15.9%). Mixed Malassezia species were not isolated. In conclusion, M. globosa was found to be the predominant PV isolate in Adana, Turkey.

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a mild but recurrent superficial fungal infection of stratum corneum. Many predisposing factors such as late teen and young adulthood age, tropical and subtropical climate (and to a lesser extent temperate climate), immunosuppression, malnutrition, use of oral contraceptives, hyperhidrosis, poor hygiene and a few other factors have been proposed for this condition., Aim: Regarding these probable and possible risk factors, we felt that jail is a unique population which can be affected by this infection and therefore we decided to evaluate some aspects of this infection in this population., Methods: In this cross-sectional study in male prisoners of Bandarabbas city, 230 prisoners were randomly selected. One hundred and five (45.67%) of them were diagnosed to be infected. They were also evaluated regarding age, duration of being imprisoned, skin color, site of lesion and its pigmentation change and any concomitant clinical manifestation such as pruritus, burning or cebure. Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was used for data analysis., Results: Mean age of infected population was 31.62 +/- 8.67 years while peak incidence of PV was in 28-32 years age group. The most common color change was hypopigmentation. No case of PV hyperpigmentation was seen. We could not also observe any association between skin color and duration of being imprisoned with the frequency of infection., Conclusion: There seems to be no difference between pattern of infection in the general population and prisoners' population in the aspects evaluated.

We assessed the dermatological manifestations associated with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and their association with liver status. Of 155 patients with chronic HCV infection in Cairo, Egypt, 71 (45.8%) had dermatological manifestations: pruritus without evident skin lesions (21.3%), pigmented purpuric eruption (5.2%), aphthous ulcer and lichen planus (3.9% each), leukocytoclastic vasculitis (2.6%), psoriasis (1.9%), tinea versicolor (1.3%) and other conditions (5.8%). Shrunken liver, splenomegaly and ascites were significantly associated with the presence of skin lesions (relative risk 8.0, 2.7 and 1.8 respectively), and shrunken liver was significantly associated with pruritus (relative risk 2.1). Sex was not associated with any of the skin lesions.

Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a chronic superficial fungal disease caused by Malassezia spp. The incidence is as high as 30-40% in tropical climates. Previous studies indicate that the geographic factor has influence on the main species isolated from PV. Our aim was to identify Malassezia spp. from PV patients in Indonesia and their correlation to clinical characteristics. Isolates of Malassezia were collected from 98 PV patients (62 males and 36 females). Identification was based on morphological observation and biochemical evaluation. Leeming Notman agar was used as isolation culture medium. The biochemical evaluation consisted of specimen culture onto Sabouraud dextrose agar, Cremophor EL, Esculin, Dixon's agar at 37 degrees C and catalase reaction. The isolates found were Malasseziafurfur (42.9%), M. sympodialis (27.5%), M. globosa (13.3%), M. slooffiae (7.7%), M. obtusa (7.7%) and M. restricta (2.2%), and 7.14% specimens were unidentified. There was no statistically significant association between Malassezia spp. and demographic characteristics and clinical characteristics of the patients. Unlike reports from temperate climate countries, this study in Indonesia found M. furfur as the most frequently isolated Malassezia spp. in PV patients.

Objectives: To determine the pattern of psychiatric morbidity prevalent among leprosy patients and to compare it with two control groups; those suffering from Tinea vesicolor and Normal subjects., Design: Eighty-eight leprosy patients were matched for age and sex with those suffering from Tinea vesicolor as well as normal subjects. The subjects were assessed for psychiatric morbidity through a clinical interview with PSE-9., Results: The prevalence of psychiatric morbidity among leprosy patients (580/1000) was significantly more than those with tinea vesicolor patients (182/1000) and normal subjects (148/1000) (p < 0.05). Depressive illness was the most common diagnosis in the three groups., Conclusions: Leprosy patients are more likely to manifest with psychiatric illness than those suffering from Tinea vesicolor and normal subjects.

In our study of 6 month of pityriasis versicolor patient in skin department of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital outdoor, most of the patient was of age 16-25 years (63.33%), 20% was of age 26-35 years and 16.67% was of 36-45 years. Age distribution among male patient maximum (66.67%) was of 16-25 years and among females the maximum 50% was also of 16-25 years. Mostly was male (80%) and 20% was female only 20% of the patient has got the positive family history whereas 80% with no family history of the disease, which indicates that there is no hereditary predilection. Of the patient 66.67% was unmarried and 33.33% was married. Late adolescence & early adult age groups are predominantly affected. Small children & elderly adults are infected only in unusual circumstances, such as prolonged occlusion or immunosuppresion. Prevalence reported to be as high as 50% in the humid, hot environment of Western Samoa & on low as 11.1% in the colder temperature of Sweden. About sex distribution of patients 20% were female. The study shows that majority of patients were male (20%).

Although pityriasis versicolor is the only human disease for which Malassezia yeasts have been fully established as pathogens, it is still not clear which species are implicated. Most studies carried out in recent years support our hypothesis - proposed in 1999 - that Malassezia globosa is the predominant species in pityriasis versicolor lesions, at least in temperate climates. Confirmation of this hypothesis could help us understand the conditions, as yet unclear, that induce transformation of this yeast from the saprophytic form present in healthy skin to the parasitic form, characterized by the formation of pseudomycelium, and could also guide therapy. In addition, isolation of another species, Malassezia furfur, which seems to be predominant in the tropics, raises the possibility of a second etiologic agent confined to certain areas, as occurs with some other human mycoses.

Malassezia may play a role in several dermatoses. It is responsible for foliculitis and mainly for pityriasis versicolor. Pityriasis versicolor is the most known dermatitis because of its clinical aspects and frequently for its poor response to the therapy, mainly in chronic forms. The clinical aspects of uncommon and rare forms of pityriasis versicolor have been reported. The data related to the patients observed in the last thirty years in Siena are reported. In addition, a study was carried out in Pisa by Professor F. Mancianti to identify species of Malassezia isolated in 37 patients.

To study the clinical and epidemiological profile of Pityriasis versicolor (PV) and to determine the possible genetic model for PV in Chinese Han, we investigated 503 patients with PV who were recruited by a questionnaire method. Statistical analysis, heritability and complex segregation analysis were performed using EPI INFO 6.0, SPSS 10.0, the Falconer method and the SAGE-REGTL programs. In the total 503 PV patients, the mean age of onset was 22.85 +/- 10.36 years. For male and female patients, the peak ages of initial onset were both 20-29 years. A total of 106 (21.1%) patients were reported to have a positive family history of PV. The mean age of onset in males with positive family history was earlier than those with negative family history (t = 3.58, P < 0.01). Higher rate of recurrence and longer duration were seen in the patients with positive family history than those with negative family history. The heritability of PV in first-, second- and third-degree relatives was 48.13%, 40.11% and 27.20% respectively. Based on the REGTL results, the best model was a polygenic additive model for PV.

Background: Although a predisposing role of pregnancy to Malassezia infections is referred, data on the prevalence of pityriasis versicolor (PV) in pregnant women are not available in literature., Objective: To investigate the frequency of PV during pregnancy, 60 pregnant women were clinically and microscopically investigated during and after pregnancy., Results: Fifty-two women completed all visits; three women were affected by PV at first or third trimester of pregnancy, and none at 6 months after delivery. Colonization due to Malassezia yeasts was very significantly (P < 0.01) or significantly increased (P < 0.05) at the third trimester and 6 months after delivery, respectively. No variation was observed between the end of pregnancy and the postpartum (P > 0.05)., Conclusion: Frequency of PV during pregnancy (5.7%) does not seem different from that reported in general population living in temperate climates (2-5%). However, higher degree of colonization by Malassezia resulted at the end of pregnancy and postpartum.

Malassezia spp. yeasts are commensal organisms of mammal and avian skin, but little is known about their presence on the skin of healthy cats. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of Malassezia spp. yeasts in feline nail folds and to identify the different species. Forty-six cats of different breeds were evaluated by cytological examination, and Malassezia spp. yeasts were seen in 61% of them. Yeasts were found in 100% of Devon Rex cats [mean 8.63/oil immersion field (high-power field - HPF)]. Conversely, only 42% of cats of other breeds (domestic short-haired and Persian) were positive (mean 0.59/HPF). Twenty-one cats of different breeds were subsequently evaluated by fungal culture. Malassezia pachydermatis was isolated from 52%, M. furfur from 38%, and M. sympodialis from 9.5% of the cats. More than one species was observed in eight of 21 cats, six of which were Devon Rex. Malassezia spp. yeasts are common inhabitants of feline nail folds, especially in Devon Rex cats, and the presence of a high number of yeasts on cytology correlates with the clinical observation of brown, greasy material in the nail folds. M. pachydermatis and two lipid-dependent species were isolated from both Devon Rex cats and cats of other breeds.

Eight hundred and twenty primary school children were examined to assess the spectrum and prevalence of skin diseases in rural Tanzania. In all, 55% of the children had one or several skin disorders, but only 33% of all diagnoses in a cluster of 14% of the children required treatment. Tinea versicolor was found in 26.2%, pyoderma and dermatophytoses in less than 10%, while few children had scabies or eczematous lesions.

Purpose of Review: To analyze the relationships among different Malassezia species and pityriasis versicolor, the only human disease in which the etiologic role of these fungi is fully accepted (although the species implicated remains a matter of discussion)., Recent Findings: Since 1996, after the taxonomic revision of the genus, a limited number of papers analyzing the role of the different Malassezia species in pityriasis versicolor have been published or were the subject of presentations in congresses; there were only four in the past year. This paper discusses the results of these works, comparing them with results of the authors' most recent study in this field, conducted over the past 16 months., Summary: Most of the studies published thus far now show that Malassezia globosa is the predominant species found in the lesions of pityriasis versicolor, at least in temperate climates. The authors' recent findings confirm these results. The etiologic role of M. globosa in pityriasis versicolor is based, even more than on its isolation in a high percentage of cultures, on its identification by direct microscopy as typical globose yeast cells producing pseudohyphae in almost 100% of cases. The confirmation of the pathogenic role of this species in pityriasis versicolor could help in understanding these conditions, which are still unclear, which promote its transformation from the saprophytic stage present in healthy skin to the parasitic one, and could also help in selecting the best therapeutic measures.

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a mild chronic infection of the skin caused by Malassezia yeasts. Although it is primarily seen in adults, children are often affected in the tropics ., Methods: Over a period of 2 years, children (up to the age of 14 years) who were clinically and mycologically diagnosed as PV were included in the study. The clinical and epidemiological pattern in different age groups was noted., Results: PV in this age group formed about 31% of the total cases of PV; 4.8% cases presented in infancy. The commonest site of involvement was the face in 39.9% of the cases. Most of the cases presented in summer months., Conclusions: PV is not an uncommon disease among children in the tropics. There is a sudden resurgence of cases in the hot monsoons and even infants are not spared.

To determine the age incidence and prevalence of Pityrosporum orbiculare on the normal skin of healthy Iraqi children, we carried out a survey of clinically normal skin of 110 healthy children in Baghdad during April 1998-October 1998. We isolated P. orbiculare on a peptone--glucose--yeast extract medium containing chloramphenicol and cycloheximide, and overlaid with olive oil. The organism was present on the trunk in 77.5% of children 10-14 years, 27.5% of children 5-9 years, and 6.6% of children < 5 years.