Malassezia Dermatitis
 
Description of the Disease and Clinical Picture
Malassezia pachydermatis is a unicellular yeast fungus that is present in small numbers on the skin of the external ear canal, periorally, perianally, and in skin folds. In certain diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, keratinization disorders, endocrine disorders, and bacterial infections, there is a significant increase in the number of this fungus, leading to the manifestation of clinical symptoms. Animals are often pruritic, and there is alopecia, erythema, and excoriation present, with the skin being oily to the touch. In chronic cases, hyperpigmentation, lichenification, hyperkeratosis, and an unpleasant sweetish smell can occur. Predisposed dog breeds include West Highland White Terriers, Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters, Shih Tzus, and Poodles, and among cats, Devon Rexes.
 
Therapy
The diagnosis is made through a cytological or microbiological examination of a skin sample. Therapy is carried out with topical and/or systemic application of antifungals for at least 4 weeks. To succeed in therapy, it is essential to keep the primary disease under control.
 
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(oculusklinika@gmail.com) in Serbia, Europe to schedule an appointment so your pet
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