Genus Malassezia includes 14 species, namely M. furfur, M. sympodialis, M. globosa, M. restricta, M. slooffiae, M. obtusa, M. dermatis, M. japonica and M. yamatoensis associated with normal human flora but can also cause skin lesions, and M. pachydermatis, M. nana, M. equina, M. caprae and M. cuniculiare associated with animals. Few studies found that M. pachydermatis may be transmitted to humans from pets. M. pachydermmatis is the only lipid independent species while others are lipid dependent .

As Malassezia species have similar morphological and biochemical features, the currently used phenotypic techniques for diagnosis of Pityriasis versicolor usually do not allow rapid and exact characterization. In addition; they are time-consuming, multi-step processes requiring several experimental methods. Therefore, several molecular typing methods have been used successfully, resulting in identification and classification of new Malassezia species

Aim of the work:

1. Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Malassezia Species.
2. Identify antifungal resistance pattern among isolated fungus.

Inclusion Criteria:

Characteristic lesions of hypopigmented or hyperpigmented scaly macules and patches which may be associated with itching in patients with Pityriasis versicolor and scales of Seborrheic dermatitis and scales from patients with Atopic dermatitis.

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients with skin lesions of extensive desquamation or inflammation that do not match Pityriasis versicolor , Seborrheic dermatitis or Atopic dermatitis. Patients who had received topical antifungal therapy within last three months or oral antifungal therapy within the last six months

Characteristic lesions of hypopigmented or hyperpigmented scaly macules and patches which may be associated with itching in patients with Pityriasis versicolor and scales of Seborrheic dermatitis and scales from patients with Atopic dermatitis.