[The use of calcofluor white for studying Malassezia species by direct microscopy]

Fungi of Malassezia genus are known as normal flora in human beings. However, different pathologies due to Malassezia, have been described. Traditionally, early diagnosis was delayed because of the difficulties in culture isolation of these organisms. The aim of this work, is to evaluate the technique of observation microscopy with calcofluor, for identification of Malassezia in both, clinical samples and isolates. In comparison to traditional method of direct examination with lactophenol-blue, calcofluor method offers an advantage because it turns easier the observation of fungal elements and its budding pattern. This technique contributes then, to identify species of Malassezia. The analysis of clinical specimens with calcofluor followed by observation under fluorescence microscopy is a simple and rapid method for the identification, and contribute therefore to the early diagnosis.