Disruption of the epidermal barrier 4. Bacterial skin disease. Malassezia can proliferate in close proximity to many bacteria and its growth is enhanced by the presence of Staphylococcus . The release of inflammatory mediators that contribute to suppression of the immune response plus the constant microtrauma from scratching are factors responsible for Malassezia proliferation in the presence of an allergic disease. Alteration of the T cell response.
T cell mediated hypersensitivity is responsible for prevention of the disease.
It is postulated that individuals prone to developing recurrent yeast infection may have a defective T cell function. Disruption of the normal skin flora. This factor is especially evident in people where Yeast infections are a common sequel to antibiotic therapy. Malassezia is a lipophilic yeast and lipids enhance its growth. The yeast produces a lipase that further alter the sebum composition and causes the production of free fatty acids that are highly irritating on the skin.