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==Introduction==

==Introduction==

==Pathogenesis==

==Pathogenesis==

''Malassezia pachydermitis'' proliferates and liberates enzymes and metabolites which induce cutaneous inflammation. Concurrent skin diseases such as [[Atopic Dermatitis|atopic dermatitis]] and primary defects of keratinisation are recognised in approximately 66% of cases. Some dogs may show hypersensitivity to ''Malassezia pachydermitis''.

''Malassezia pachydermatis'' proliferates and liberates enzymes and metabolites which induce cutaneous inflammation. Concurrent skin diseases such as [[Atopic Dermatitis|atopic dermatitis]] and primary defects of keratinisation are recognised in approximately 66% of cases. Some dogs may show hypersensitivity to ''Malassezia pachydermatis''.

==Diagnosis==

==Signalment==

===History===

Affected dogs usually present with° a greasy skin disease often with a characteristic odour and a variable degree of pruritus. Basset hounds, Cocker Spaniels and West Highland Terriers are predisposed.

 

===Clinical signs===

==History==

Malassezia dermatitis can complicate or mimic allergic skin disease and scaling skin disorders. The main clinical signs are erythema and a greasy exudate which may result in matted hair with variable amounts of alopecia and scaling. Hyperpigmentation and lichenification occur in chronic cases. Concurrent erythematous otitis externa with variable ceruminous discharge is common.

Affected dogs usually present with a greasy skin disease often with a characteristic odour and a variable degree of pruritus.  

 

==Clinical signs==

Malassezia dermatitis can complicate or mimic allergic skin disease and scaling skin disorders. The main clinical signs are '''erythema and a greasy exudate''' which may result in matted hair with variable amounts of alopecia and scaling. Hyperpigmentation and lichenification occur in chronic cases. Concurrent erythematous otitis externa with variable ceruminous discharge is common.

The degree of pruritus is variable but can be extreme especially on the face in a small number of dogs.  

The degree of pruritus is variable but can be extreme especially on the face in a small number of dogs.  

===Laboratory tests===

 

The most common method of diagnosis is by microscopic examination of a tape stip reveealing an increased number of ''Malassezia pachydermitis''. Clear adhesive tape is applied to the affected area and removed, stained and examined under oil emersion. The yeast can also be cultured on Sabrouraud's dextrose agar at 32-37°C for 3-5 days.

==Laboratory tests==

The most common method of diagnosis is by microscopic examination of a tape stip revealing an increased number of ''Malassezia pachydermitis''. Clear adhesive tape is applied to the affected area and removed, stained and examined under oil emersion. The yeast can also be cultured on Sabrouraud's dextrose agar at 32-37°C for 3-5 days.

 

==Treatment==

==Treatment==

Treatment is aimed at reducing the yeast population and treatingany underlying skin conditions. The first choice of treatment is an antifungal medcated shampoo containing miconazole and chlorhexidine. Selenium sulphide in combination with enilconazole or ketoconazole can also be used topically but is less effective.The use of systemic antifungal drugs such as ketoconazole can also be considered. The response to treatment should be measured by clinical response and by a reduction in yeast populations on lsion skin upon microscopic examination.  

Treatment is aimed at reducing the yeast population and treating any underlying skin conditions. The first choice of treatment is an antifungal medicated '''shampoo containing miconazole and chlorhexidine'''. Selenium sulphide in combination with enilconazole or ketoconazole can also be used topically but is less effective. The use of systemic antifungal drugs such as ketoconazole can also be considered. The response to treatment should be measured by clinical response and by a reduction in yeast populations in skin lesions upon microscopic examination.  

 

==Literature Search==

==Literature Search==

==References==

==References==

* Merck & Co (2008) '''The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition)''' ''Merial''

* Merck & Co (2008) '''The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition)''' ''Merial''

[[Category: To Do - Review]]

[[Category: To Do - Review]]