DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2018.v06i12.048

Pages: 4882-4885

Malassezia is opportunistic lipophilic yeast found in areas rich in sebaceous glands of human beings and animals. Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is the most common skin disease caused by genus Malassezia, characterized by patchy discoloration of skin ranging from hypo to hyper pigmentation or erythematous skin lesions of stratum corneum. It has also been shown to be associated with deep invasive infections in immunocompromised patients, especially those receiving intravenous lipids or with central venous catheters. Recurrence rate of Malassezia in spite of treatment is high, about 60% in first year and about 80% in second year. Thus, in order to prevent morbidity, recurrence and invasive infections, early laboratory diagnosis and treatment of the condition is required. Aim of the present study is to identify and speciate Malassezia isolates from clinically suspected cases of Pityriasis Versicolor and to know the local distribution of various species.