Feline systemic fungal infections

Systemic fungal diseases are important diagnostic considerations in all sick cats, particularly in cats with ocular symptoms. The most common ocular manifestation of these diseases is posterior uveitis (choroiditis); however, anterior uveitis is sometimes present and is usually secondary to the inflammation in the posterior segment. Occasionally, adnexal diseases such as blepharitis, inflammation of the nictitating membrane, and ocular discharge may be present in cats with systemic mycoses. The prognosis for cats with systemic fungal diseases has changed with the advent of the triazole antifungal drugs. In the past, the prognosis was guarded to poor for survival of the cat. Today, with prolonged antifungal therapy, many cats recover completely from their disease. The prognosis for return of vision for eyes affected with systemic fungal disease is still guarded. Often, even if the infection is controlled systemically, the retina is severely damaged and may remain nonfunctional.