Chronic Diseases Associated with Malassezia Yeast

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Human Health
• Mycology

Background:

• Malassezia yeasts are lipid-dependent fungi part of the normal skin microbiome.
• Recent detection of Malassezia DNA in various body sites raises questions about contamination versus true colonization.
• The role of Malassezia in chronic human diseases remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review studies investigating the association between Malassezia species and chronic human diseases.
• To address the knowledge gap regarding the presence and significance of Malassezia in non-skin body sites.
• To explore the potential link between Malassezia and conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and others.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 31 published studies.
• Focus on studies associating Malassezia spp. with chronic human diseases.
• Analysis of evidence regarding yeast presence, viability, and association with disease.

Main Results:

• Studies report Malassezia DNA in diverse body sites beyond the skin.
• Evidence is presented for associations with conditions including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, asthma, and colorectal cancer.
• The review highlights inconsistencies and the need for further research to differentiate contamination from true colonization.

Conclusions:

• The presence of Malassezia in various body sites warrants further investigation to determine if it represents true colonization or contamination.
• A definitive causal link between Malassezia and many chronic diseases requires more rigorous research.
• Understanding Malassezia's role in health and disease is crucial for potential therapeutic strategies.