ABSTRACT
In this chapter we give an overview about the relevance of fungi in the pathogenetic concepts of AD.
In recent years evidence has grown that yeasts, especially of the genera Malassezia and Candida can be relevant for the pathogenesis of AD.1-4
Many clinical studies demonstrate that the colonisation of the skin and subsequent sensitization to Malassezia yeasts can trigger skin inflammation and play a role in the pathogenesis of AD. Malassezia yeasts are members of the normal human cutaneous flora but on the other hand these fungi are associated with different skin diseases such as pityriasis versicolor, Malassezia folliculitis and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
