Which organism is associated with tinea versicolor?

• A. Microsporum audouii
• B. Trichophyton tonsurans
• C. Candida albicans
• D. Malassezia furfur

Answer: (D)

Tinea versicolor arises from overgrowth of a lipid-loving yeast that normally resides on the skin. The organism most closely linked to this condition is Malassezia furfur, which thrives in oily areas, remains part of the skin’s normal flora, and produces metabolites that disrupt pigment production in the skin. This leads to the characteristic light and dark patches often seen in sun-exposed areas. The other listed organisms are different types of fungi: some are dermatophytes that invade keratin and cause other tinea infections, while Candida albicans causes candidiasis. Because Malassezia furfur is the yeast specifically associated with tinea versicolor, it’s the correct association.