Malassezia Folliculitis: Pathogenesis and Diagnostic Challenges

<i>Malassezia</i> folliculitis (MF) is a fungal infection that often presents with pruritic follicular papules and pustules, primarily affecting the upper body. Due to its clinical similarity to bacterial folliculitis, misdiagnosis and delayed treatment are common. In this report, we present the case of a 16-year-old male who developed persistent pruritic papules on his upper back and chest, initially misdiagnosed as bacterial folliculitis. Following ineffective antibiotic treatment, mycological analysis confirmed <i>Malassezia</i> as the causative pathogen. This case emphasizes the importance of considering fungal etiologies in folliculitis, particularly in patients with recurrent or treatment-resistant symptoms. The patient's condition improved significantly following antifungal therapy, underscoring the need for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.