Pityrosporum Folliculitis

Pityrosporum folliculitis, which is also known as malassezia folliculitis, is a disorder of the skin which is caused by a species of yeast called malassezia. This yeast is present on the surface of the skin under normal conditions and is not a cause for concern. But sometimes, the yeast begins to multiply uncontrollably, due to moist, sweaty and humid environment. This kind of environment is favorable for flourishing of this yeast species. The yeast, which grows mostly in the chest and back region, enters the hair follicles and causes the eruption of pustules that are similar to acne. This condition is mostly seen in adults. Scalp folliculitis is also caused by the same micro-organism, which is a very annoying condition. As we have seen the infiltration of the malassezia yeast is one of the main causes of this skin condition.

Pityrosporum Folliculitis Causes

It should be noted that pityrosporum folliculitis is not an infectious disease. It is merely uncontrolled overgrowth of the yeast in the hair follicles due to various factors. Though the exact cause of this pathogen induced disorder is not yet known, some of the possible causes of the rapid growth of the pathogen are given below.

• Intense heat and high humidity are one of the main factors for the yeast development. Wearing synthetic clothes can obstruct free breathing of the skin and trigger the growth of malassezia yeast, which can be seen as small skin bumps.
• There are sebaceous glands present under the skin, which produce sebum (or oil). There are some conditions like pregnancy when there is an increase in the hormones that can result in the excess production of sebum. Since the pores on the skin get blocked due to accumulation of sebum, this can initiate the spread of the skin disorder.
• Individuals who are suffering from fatigue, diabetes or stress are more susceptible to yeast infestation as compared to others. Allergic reactions of certain antibiotics and medications are also one of the causative factors for development of this disorder.

Pityrosporum Folliculitis Symptoms

Some of the symptoms exhibited by malassezia folliculitis are similar to other skin disorders caused by pathogens. Given below are some of the signs that help in detecting the presence of this distressing skin condition.

• The visible symptom is the eruption of small pimples on the chest and back. These acne like outgrowths are pinkish in color and can also appear on the face, forearms, hands and lower legs.
• The blisters are filled with pus like fluid, which can break and form crusts, and are tender to touch. Scars can also be formed as a result of scratching.
• These tiny skin abscesses can cause a lot of itching and stinging or burning sensation.

Pityrosporum Folliculitis Treatment

There are two ways in which treatment can be administered - oral medication and topical creams. Anti fungal pills are one of the most effective ways to control the growth of this fungus. The dose may depend on the severity and may vary from person to person. However, these medications must be taken only under the supervision of a health care provider. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent the spread of this disorder. There are also anti fungal creams for topical application. Apart from these clinical remedies, a few home remedies are also effective and prove helpful in treating this condition. Add five to six drops of neem oil in warm water and bathe in it. Neem oil is an excellent remedy and will eradicate the symptoms of this annoying skin condition. Also wear loose clothing and avoid sharing towels and clothes, etc.

Avoid humid environment and practice proper skin care if you want to prevent the occurrence of pityrosporum folliculitis. A regular visit to the dermatologist can help you in diagnosing this skin condition in its initial stages and prevent it from becoming severe. Take care!