In vitro sensitivity of Malassezia spp. to various antimycotics

The sensitivity of Malassezia furfur and Malassezia pachydermatis to various antimicrobial agents both as single compounds and combined with various vehicles was evaluated in vitro using the agar diffusion method. Clotrimazole, thiabendazole, ketoconazole, econazole, miconazole and other agents were chosen taking into account their specific commercial formulations and their utilization in mycotic pathologies sustained by Malassezia genus in man and animals. The antimicrobial agents were compared with nystatin and amphotericin, regarded as references because of their well established activity against this species, and with some aspecific disinfectants. The results showed that the substances were effective in inhibiting the growth of these organisms, but that there was no relationship between in vitro activity and commercial formulations of the antimicrobials. Considerations concerning the relationships between Malassezia species in determining zoonotic pathologies and suggestions for the therapeutic use of drugs are reported.