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Infecting Mice with Malassezia spp. to Study the Fungus-Host Interaction
06:19

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Published on: November 6, 2019

Revised culture-based system for identification of Malassezia species

Takamasa Kaneko1, Koichi Makimura, Michiko Abe

  • 1Kanto Chemical Co Inc, Marusan Bldg, Tokyo, Japan.

Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|September 21, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This study identified atypical Malassezia strains from clinical samples, noting distinct colony appearances on CHROMagar Malassezia medium. These findings aid in accurately identifying key Malassezia species in laboratory settings.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Clinical Microbiology
  • Yeast Identification

Background:

  • Malassezia species are common yeasts found on human and animal skin.
  • Atypical biochemical profiles can complicate accurate identification.
  • Reliable identification is crucial for diagnosing Malassezia-associated conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize atypical Malassezia strains isolated from clinical samples.
  • To evaluate the utility of colony morphology on CHROMagar Malassezia medium for identification.
  • To propose an improved identification system for clinical laboratories.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and biochemical testing of Malassezia spp. from 366 clinical samples.
  • Cultivation on CHROMagar Malassezia medium to observe colony morphology.
  • Comparison of biochemical data and colony characteristics for species identification.

Main Results:

  • Forty-six atypical Malassezia strains were identified, including lipid-dependent M. pachydermatis, non-Cremophor EL-assimilating M. furfur, and various M. slooffiae strains.
  • Distinct colony morphologies on CHROMagar Malassezia medium differentiated M. furfur and M. slooffiae.
  • The proposed system correctly identified clinically important species like M. globosa, M. restricta, and M. furfur.

Conclusions:

  • Atypical Malassezia strains exhibit unique biochemical and morphological features.
  • CHROMagar Malassezia medium aids in distinguishing Malassezia species based on colony appearance.
  • The developed identification system is effective for routine clinical laboratory use.

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