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01-05-2024 | Malassezia | REVIEW

More yeast, more problems?: reevaluating the role of Malassezia in seborrheic dermatitis

Authors: Christy H. Chang, Raj Chovatiya

Published in: Archives of Dermatological Research | Issue 4/2024

Abstract

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is an inflammatory skin disorder and eczema subtype increasingly recognized to be associated with significant physical, psychosocial, and financial burden. The full spectrum of SD, including dandruff localized to the scalp, is estimated to affect half of the world’s population. Despite such high prevalence, the exact etiopathogenesis of SD remains unclear. Historically, many researchers have theorized a central, causative role of Malassezia spp. based on prior studies including the proliferation of Malassezia yeast on lesional skin of some SD patients and empiric clinical response to antifungal therapy. However, upon closer examination, many of these findings have not been reproducible nor consistent. Emerging data from novel, targeted anti-inflammatory therapeutics, as well as evidence from genome-wide association studies and murine models, should prompt a reevaluation of the popular yeast-centered hypothesis. Here, through focused review of the literature, including laboratory studies, clinical trials, and expert consensus, we examine and synthesize the data arguing for and against a primary role for Malassezia in SD. We propose an expansion of SD pathogenesis and suggest reframing our view of SD to be based primarily on dysregulation of the host immune system and skin epidermal barrier, like other eczemas.

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Title: More yeast, more problems?: reevaluating the role of Malassezia in seborrheic dermatitis
Authors: Christy H. Chang
Raj Chovatiya
Publication date: 01-05-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Malassezia
Roflumilast
Published in: Archives of Dermatological Research / Issue 4/2024
Print ISSN: 0340-3696
Electronic ISSN: 1432-069X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-024-02830-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

More yeast, more problems?: reevaluating the role of Malassezia in seborrheic dermatitis

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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