Microbiology Malassezia (formerly called Pityrosporum ) is a genus of lipophilic, basidiomycetous yeasts lacking ballistospores and classified in the order Malasseziales . Its phylogenetic placement within the Ustilaginomycotina (Basidiomycota) is highly supported. Malassezia increasingly is recognized as an opportunist affecting both humans and animals. , Newer identification methods have made the characterization of several new species possible and also have enhanced our understanding of the ecology…

Mucormycosis (formerly zygomycosis) is an uncommon but emerging infection that occurs in immunocompromised patients, including children and neonates. Previously, the term zygomycosis was used to refer to syndromes of mucormycosis and entomophthoromycosis, but updates in taxonomy determined that the phylum name Zygomycota is invalid. Because the phylum Zygomycota no longer exists, the term zygomycosis has become obsolete. , Molds causing these infections are now in the…

Agents of hyalohyphomycosis and phaeohyphomycosis are ubiquitous filamentous molds. (Moulds is the preferred spelling by many mycologists.) These molds are soil saprobes and plant pathogens that have gained notoriety as emerging pathogens in immunocompromised hosts, including children. The pathogenesis of infections with these organisms is not clearly established because many of these organisms are minimally pathogenic in humans. However, fungal conidia can cause infection in severely…

Fungal disease contributes significantly to patients’ morbidity and mortality in certain clinical settings. Extensive medical interventions, immunosuppression, and a heightened awareness of fungal disease, particularly opportunistic mycoses in the setting of immune compromise, have all necessitated an increased understanding of fungal etiologic agents and their classification, identification, and clinical manifestations. The Agents Definition Fungi are heterotrophic (using organic compounds as a primary source of energy and…