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Infection with Basidiobolus ranarum in two dogs
Craig E Greene1, Charles W Brockus, M P Currin
1Department of Small Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens 30602, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|August 20, 2002
Summary
Basidiobolus ranarum (B. ranarum) infections in dogs can cause severe subcutaneous or respiratory disease. Treatment challenges include drug resistance and potential liver toxicity, highlighting the need for effective antifungal strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Basidiobolus ranarum is an environmental saprophytic fungus and commensal gastrointestinal microflora.
- This fungus can cause granulomatous inflammation in vertebrates upon penetrating skin or mucosa.
Observation:
- Two dogs presented with B. ranarum infections following environmental exposure.
- One dog developed progressive subcutaneous infections, while the other experienced tracheobronchitis with coughing and dyspnea.
- Both cases exhibited secondary bacterial infections.
Findings:
- Antifungal treatments, including enrofloxacin, itraconazole, potassium iodide, and amphotericin B, showed limited efficacy and potential hepatotoxicity.
- Combination therapy with enrofloxacin and itraconazole was more effective for respiratory signs but also led to liver damage.
- Intermittent enrofloxacin therapy provided long-term cough control in one dog.
Implications:
- This case study highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of B. ranarum infections in canines.
- The findings underscore the potential for drug resistance and adverse effects, necessitating careful treatment monitoring.
- Further research into novel antifungal agents and treatment protocols for B. ranarum is warranted.