NEONATAL MALASSEZIA-FURFUR PUSTULOSIS

Background: Papulopustular eruptions of the face in neonates are frequ ently referred to as neonatal acne or sebaceous miliaria. Our findings suggest that there is an association between this type of eruption an d Malassezia furfur infection. Observations: Direct examination of pus tule smears showed M fufur yeasts in eight of 13 cases involving neona tes with erythema and papulopustules of the face, neck, and scalp (mea n age at onset, 22 days [range, 7 to 30 days]). The pustules were pred ominantly neutrophilic. Treatment with 2% ketoconazole cream applied t opically twice daily was effective in 1 week. Conclusion: Malassezia f urfur is frequently associated with a common non follicular pustulosis of the newborn, probably improperly termed neonatal acne.