Canine ringworm caused by Trichophyton rubrum; probable transmission from man to animal

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Medical Mycology
• Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

• Ringworm, a superficial fungal infection, commonly affects animals and humans.
• Trichophyton rubrum is a frequent cause of human dermatophytosis, including tinea pedis (athlete's foot).
• Zoonotic transmission of dermatophytes between pets and owners is possible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first authenticated case of Trichophyton rubrum infection in a dog in Japan.
• To highlight the potential for human-to-animal transmission of this specific dermatophyte.
• To document a rare veterinary dermatological condition.

Main Methods:

• Clinical examination of a 2-year-old male Dachshund presenting with dermatological signs.
• Diagnostic procedures to identify the causative fungal agent.
• Epidemiological investigation including owner's health status.

Main Results:

• Isolation and identification of Trichophyton rubrum from the affected dog.
• The dog's owner presented with tinea pedis, also suspected to be caused by Trichophyton rubrum.
• This represents the first documented case of canine T. rubrum infection in Japan.

Conclusions:

• Canine ringworm caused by Trichophyton rubrum is a rare but possible condition.
• Human-to-dog transmission of Trichophyton rubrum is a likely route of infection in this case.
• This case underscores the importance of considering zoonotic potential in dermatological infections of pets.