Malassezia has seven different subspecies that cause or contribute to a spectrum of conditions, with M. symbodialis, M. globosa and M. furfur the most common species isolated. These are commensal organisms on normal skin, however show greater diversity and immunoreactivity in patients with HIV leading to greater likelihood of associated cutaneous manifestations. (95)  

Clinical presentation 

Malassezia   can  present  in  the  setting  of  HIV  as  pruritic pustules,  plaques  or  papules  on  the  face,  chest,  back  and shoulders.  Due to its morphology and distribution, Malassezia pustules may be confused with acne vulgaris however comedones are not present as with acne.