Dermatology - Malassezia Dermatitis Flashcards
Describe Malassezia pachydermatis (i.e what type of fungi and where it lives).
It is a non-obligatory, lipophilic, budding yeast considered part of the normal flora of the skin and external ear canal
Malassezia infections are almost always _____ _____.
secondary conditions - perpetuating factors of pruritus
What are the typical underlying causes associated with Malassezia infections?
atopy, other allergic skin diseases, endocrine imbalances, systemic illness, immunodeficiency syndromes, including glucocorticoid administration, nutritional deficiencies
What are predisposing factors to Malassezia infections?
breed, presence of seborrheic dermatitis, increased temperature, increased humidity, and immunodeficiency conditions
What is the pathogenesis of Malassezia infections?
- Activation of the alternate pathway of complement
- Production of enzymes and toxins that induce inflammation
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Synergistic actions with Staph. Pseudintermedius
What breeds are predisposed to Malassezia infections?
Chinese shar-pei, basset hound, american cocker spaniel, boxer, dachshund, and labrador retriever
What is the main historical feature associated with Malassezia infections?
intense pruritus
What other historical features are associated with Malassezia infections?
History of licking feet, rubbing face, generalized pruritus that initially responded to glucocorticoid therapy, but then becomes less and less responsive - they appear to be an atopy case of of control
What physical findings are associated with Malassezia infections in the exam room?
Intense pruritus, scratching and biting in the exam room
How do lesions appear in cases of Malassezia infections?
They begin as erythema and scaling, then progress to alopecia, lichenification, and hyperpigmentation
What does the skin and hair coat look like in patients with Malassezia infections?
it appears greasy and malodorous
What clinical condition, aside from the intense pruritus is commonly seen in patients that have Malassezia infections?
otitis externa
How do the peripheral lymph nodes present in patients with Malassezia infections?
they are enlarged and prominent
When diagnosing Malassezia infections, what should be done first?
You need to identify the primary factor
What are the recommended diagnostic procedures for identifying the primary factor in Malassezia cases?
history, PE, dermatology data base, allergy tests, tests to evaluate for endocrine disease, routine hematology
How are yeast infections confirmed?
Impression smears of affected skin, using adhesive tape, clean glass microscope slides, or slides with adhesive
What is a 0 on Dr. Noxon’s subjective Malassezia scale?
no yeast on slide