Vol. 12, Special Issue 11 (2023)

Author(s):
Dr. Shubhangi Warke, Gavatri Chavan, Mehak Tikoo and Sujata Bhatkar

Abstract:
Malassezia spp. are commensals of the normal cutaneous microbiota of humans and animals. These yeasts may become opportunistic pathogens under certain conditions and cause dermatitis and otitis externa in dogs. Malassezia pachydermatis is the most common cause of Malassezia in dogs. In this study skin and ear swabs from suspected cases were cultured on Modified Dixon's Agar (MDA) and the subsequent isolates obtained were initially characterized on the basis of colony characteristics, gram staining, and microscopic morphology followed by confirmation by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting large subunit ribosomal RNA gene. Positive cases were treated with oral itraconazole at 5 mg/kg bodyweight, orally once daily for 28 days giving excellent clinical response and quick recovery.