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Current Fungal Infection Reports

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31-01-2023 | Folliculitis

Malassezia Folliculitis in the Setting of COVID-19

Authors: Alejandro Barrera-Godínez, Grecia Figueroa-Ramos

Published in: Current Fungal Infection Reports | Issue 1/2023

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To review recent literature on Malassezia folliculitis and explore its association with COVID-19.

Recent Findings

Reports of Malassezia folliculitis in the setting of COVID-19 are scarce. Shared characteristics between affected individuals include male sex, obesity, intensive care, and administration of systemic antibiotics and systemic steroids. Dexamethasone can potentially stimulate sebum production and therefore lead to Malassezia proliferation. The clinical picture of Malassezia folliculitis accompanying COVID-19 is similar to classic descriptions but tends to spare the face and predominates in occlusion sites.

Summary

Malassezia folliculitis is under-recognized. Fever, sweating, occlusion, immobility, antibiotics, and dexamethasone contribute to COVID-19 patients developing Malassezia folliculitis. Antifungal therapy, together with correcting predisposing factors, is the mainstay of management. Future research should explore the relationship between systemic steroids and other acneiform reactions.

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Title: Malassezia Folliculitis in the Setting of COVID-19
Authors: Alejandro Barrera-Godínez
Grecia Figueroa-Ramos
Publication date: 31-01-2023
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Folliculitis
Malassezia
Antibiotic
COVID-19
Dexamethasone
Published in: Current Fungal Infection Reports / Issue 1/2023
Print ISSN: 1936-3761
Electronic ISSN: 1936-377X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12281-023-00450-8

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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