Therapeutic Management of Malassezia Dermatitis in a Labrador retriever Dog

Abstract

A four and half year old male Labrador dog was brought to the College hospital with the history of severe itching and hairfall since 10 days. Clinical examination revealed intense pruritus, erythema, seborrhea, and alopecia. Tape impression smears revealed budding yeast cells of Malassezia spp., which were confirmed as Malassezia pachydermatis by cultural isolation. Hence the dog was diagnosed to be suffering from Malassezia dermatitis and was treated with oral Ketoconazole, shampoo of Ketoconazole and chlorhexidine, oral silymarin and oral administration of omega fatty acids. Haematology and serum biochemical results were within normal range except for eosinophilia. The cytological recovery was obtained by 14th day, however therapy was continued for 10 more days. Owner was asked to continue shampoo for bathing once in a week for at least for 3 more months. Hence it is concluded that the combination of oral Ketoconazole, shampoo of Ketoconazole and chlorhexidine, and oral silymarin can be successfully used for the therapy of Malassezia dermatitis in a dog.