[The role of the yeasts Malassezia sp. in etiopathology of atopic dermatitis].

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease. Its pathogenesis is still not fully understood. The lipophilic yeasts Malassezia sp, members of the normal human cutaneous flora, can be the factors that may contribute to AD. Specific IgE antibodies to Malassezia sp., skin prick tests, atopy patch tests indicate that these yeasts may be an important allergen especially in patients with AD localized on the head and neck. During exacerbations of the AD, supplementary treatment with proper antifungal agents has been shown to be of great value.