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Yeast Infections of the Skin Two major types of yeast have been implicated in skin disease in the dog, Candida and Malassezia. Candidiasis This is relatively rare and develops around the mucus covered areas such as the lips when the animal is debilitated and less able to resist infection and there is excessive moisture. The diagnosis can be confirmed by microscopy and by growing the yeast in laboratory cultures. Treatment is with drugs such as nystatin, miconazole, and ketoconazole. It is important to correct the factors that allowed the problem to develop, by keeping the area clean and dry and if necessary improving the animals bodily condition. Malassezia infection This yeast can be present on the skin and ears of normal dogs, and in those suffering from skin problems. If it is found in large numbers then it can be considered to be contributing to the skin problem. Heavy growth of this yeast is thought to occur when the skin is altered by another disease process. Diagnosis can be made by microscopic examination of smears, and by laboratory culture. Treatment can be carried out using drugs such as nystatin, ketoconazole, or by topical application of a shampoo such as malaseb. |
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