[Pityriasis versicolor in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. In vivo morphological data of Malasezzia spp. in 100 cases]

Abstract

Background: Pityriasis versicolor is caused by Malassezia spp. It is a common world wide mycosis. Seven species are known of the Malassezia genus, and are identified in vitro by their morphological characteristics, biochemical tests and by molecular biology.

Objectives: to determine clinical and epidemiological data of pityriasis versicolor as well as morphological aspects of Malassezia in vivo.

Methodology: we performed a direct examination of the scales and classified the microscopic mycological elements as oval and orbicular spores, short and long hyphae.

Results: pityriasis versicolor mainly affected the thorax. Orbiculare yeasts and short hyphae frequently present. We could corroborate the wide morphological range of Malassezia spp.

Conclusions: The morphological study of Malassezia spp. in vivo is not sufficient to determine the distribution of the various species.