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Published on: February 19, 2014
Dermal mass aspirate from a Persian cat
Kurt Zimmerman1, Bernard Feldman, John Robertson
1Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. kzimmerm@vt.edu
Veterinary Clinical Pathology
|December 5, 2003
Summary
This study identifies pseudomycetoma in Persian cats, a fungal infection causing skin nodules. Early diagnosis via cytology is crucial for effective antifungal treatment and a fair prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Mycology
- Feline Pathology
Background:
- Pseudomycetoma is a fungal infection presenting as dermal nodules.
- Persian cats exhibit a higher incidence, suggesting a potential genetic predisposition.
- Distinguishing pseudomycetoma from fungal mycetoma and dermatophytosis is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- A 1-year-old Persian cat presented with alopecia, weight loss, and ulcerated dermal nodules.
- Cytologic examination revealed pyogranulomatous inflammation with fungal elements (arthrospores).
- Histopathology confirmed granulomatous dermatitis with Splendore-Hoeppli reaction and fungal hyphae.
Findings:
- Microsporum canis was identified as the causative agent.
- Pseudomycetomas are characterized by multiple lesions, lack of trauma history, and specific histopathological features.
- Cytologic findings of arthrospores and septate hyphae in Persian cats with nodules warrant suspicion of pseudomycetoma.
Implications:
- Early cytologic diagnosis of pseudomycetoma in Persian cats with dermal nodules is critical.
- Systemic antifungal therapy offers a fair prognosis for affected cats.
- Understanding the unique features of pseudomycetoma aids in differentiating it from other fungal skin diseases.
