Final answer:
Malassezia is a genus of fungi that can cause hypersensitivity reactions in some individuals, leading to skin conditions like eczema and cutaneous candidiasis. Eczema manifests as itchy, dry rashes, while cutaneous candidiasis can cause skin rashes and infected, yellowing nails. Treatments involve managing symptoms with various topical and systemic therapies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Malassezia is a genus of fungi that is part of the skin's microbiome, commonly found on the skin surfaces of many animals, including humans. In some cases, individuals may develop Malassezia hypersensitivity or an allergic reaction to these yeasts, which can lead to skin conditions like eczema, an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by dry, itchy patches that resemble rashes. Such reactions may cause swelling, flaking, and in severe cases, bleeding. Other common occurrences include cutaneous candidiasis, an opportunistic infection of the skin and nails caused by Candida albicans and other Candida yeasts.
People with cutaneous candidiasis may experience intertrigo, a rash in skin folds, or infections of the nails resulting in yellowing and hardening. While eczema is not proven to be directly linked to yeast allergies, common treatments involve moisturizers, corticosteroid creams, and immunosuppressants to manage symptoms.