Skin colonization by Malassezia species in healthy neonatal calves and their dams

The aim of this study was to assess skin colonization by Malassezia species in full-term healthy newborn calves and their dams. Two hundred samples from the skins and ears of 50 neonatal calves and their dams were examined on two occasions, first and fourth weeks after birth. All of the samples were determined by cytological examination and fungal culture. The isolated yeasts were identified for Malassezia spp. using the conventional techniques based on the morphological and physiological characteristics. All the samples included in the first and fourth weeks showed typical Malassezia cells on cytological examination. Colonization with Malassezia species was obtained in 11.5% of neonatal calves and their dams. The most commonly isolated species in neonates with culture-positive results was M. pachydermatis (68.75%), followed by M. sympodialis (12.5%), M. furfur (6.25%), M. globosa (6.25%) and M. slooffiae (6.25%).The most commonly isolated species in dams with culture-positive results was M. pachydermatis (85.71%), followed by M. furfur (14.3%). This study confirms that Malassezia colonization of the skin begins at the first week of life. A high prevalence of M. pachydermatis in neonates is noted from first week. Environmental factors and maternal contact probably affect this colonization, but neonatal skin characteristics are probably important.