When to Initiate Referral
- Lack of response to therapy after 2 months
- Severe or widespread eruption
Treatment Basics
- Caused by the lipophilic Malassezia yeast species (part of the normal microflora of the skin)
- Tends to occur more frequently in tropical climates
- Associated with sebaceous gland activity (so more frequently seen in post- pubertal adolescents and adults)
- Recurrences are common
- Skin dyspigmentation can last months after condition treated
Treatments Include
- Ketoconazole 2% shampoo or over-the-counter selenium sulfide shampoo applied to affected areas daily until clear (left on for 5 minutes prior to rinsing)
- Topical antifungal creams such as ketoconazole 2% cream or over-the-counter clotrimazole cream once to twice daily until clear