Dandruff is confirmed to be a result of which fungus?

Dandruff is primarily associated with the fungus known as Malassezia. This genus consists of yeasts that naturally inhabit the scalp and skin of humans. However, under certain conditions such as oily skin, stress, or hormonal changes, Malassezia can overgrow, leading to the shedding of skin cells that manifest as visible flakes, commonly referred to as dandruff. This condition can also cause irritation and itching due to an inflammatory response from the body to the fungal presence.

The other fungi listed are known for different types of infections or conditions. Trichophyton is typically associated with dermatophyte infections like ringworm, impacting keratinized tissues. Aspergillus is a genus of molds often related to respiratory issues and not commonly linked with skin conditions like dandruff. Candida is a yeast known for causing various infections, primarily in immunocompromised individuals, and is not a direct cause of dandruff. Understanding the role of Malassezia is crucial for effective treatment and management of dandruff, as addressing the overgrowth of this fungus can alleviate symptoms.