A 35-year-old HIV-positive man develops greasy, yellowish scales on the scalp, nasolabial folds, and chest. The condition is thought to be driven by an overgrowth of which organism?
- A Candida albicans
- B Staphylococcus aureus
- C Malassezia furfur ✓
- D Demodex folliculorum
Correct answer: C. Malassezia furfur
Explanation
Seborrheic dermatitis is associated with Malassezia species, whose lipases break down sebum into irritating fatty acids. It is more severe and refractory in HIV patients. Staphylococcus aureus causes impetigo. Candida causes intertrigo. Demodex is associated with rosacea.
Reference: Andrews' Diseases of the Skin, 13th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.