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Infecting Mice with Malassezia spp. to Study the Fungus-Host Interaction
Published on: November 6, 2019
Study of the dermatophytes in dogs and the risk of human infection
M Kozak1, J Bilek, V Beladicova
1The Ist Internal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, State Veterinary Institute, Kosice, Slovakia. kozak@uvm.sk
Background:
The infiltrative growth of fungi that multiplies in the tissues (dermatophytes, candida, agents of visceral mycoses) is the generally known proof of "active" functioning of these organisms. The relative importance of fungi as inducers of human and animal diseases grows constantly.
Methods:
The study was carried out on dogs that showed skin changes. The frequency of examinations was determined on the basis of anamneses. Skin scrapings and affected fragile or dull hair and skin swabs were subject to Laboratory diagnostic examinations based on cultivation and microscopical examination. Our evaluations were focused on the type of parasite--ecothrix, endothrix, neoendothrix, and the size of arthrospores.
Results:
The results of our study are presented as the incidence of dermatophytes and other micromycetes in 100 samples of skin scrapings and swabs from 100 dogs of both sexes, different breeds and age categories that had exhibited skin problems. We isolated 12 species. Malassezia pachydermatis was the most frequently detected species and was isolated from 31 cases. Trichophyton mentagrophytes was isolated from 2 samples, species Microsporum canis was isolated only from one case, Candida albicans was isolated from 3 samples. The agent Candida krusei was isolated from 5 samples, Candida pulcherrima a relatively rare candidal species, was isolated from skin of an 8-year old Dalmatian bitch, Candida sp. in 5 cases. Trichosporon cutaneum was isolated from a 3-year old Laika etc.
Conclusion:
This study confirms the need of constant research in this area. This indicates that the incidence of mycoses in dogs and other pets is of importance in the exposure of people to the risk of acquiring mycotic infections. (Tab. 1, Fig. 5, Ref. 57).
Insights
Fungal infections in dogs are common, with Malassezia pachydermatis being the most frequent. These canine mycoses pose a risk to human health, highlighting the need for ongoing research.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Medical Mycology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Fungal infections, including dermatophytes and Candida species, are increasingly recognized as significant causes of disease in humans and animals.
- The infiltrative growth of fungi in tissues indicates active infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and types of fungal infections in dogs presenting with skin conditions.
- To assess the potential zoonotic implications of canine mycoses.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory diagnostic examinations of skin scrapings and hair/swab samples from 100 dogs with skin problems.
- Microscopic examination and cultivation techniques were employed.
- Analysis focused on parasite type (ecothrix, endothrix, neoendothrix) and arthrospore size.
Main Results:
- Twelve fungal species were isolated from 100 canine samples.
- Malassezia pachydermatis was the most prevalent, found in 31 cases.
- Other isolated species included Candida krusei (5 cases), Candida albicans (3 cases), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (2 cases), and Microsporum canis (1 case).
Conclusions:
- Canine mycoses are a significant health concern, with a diverse range of fungal agents identified.
- The prevalence of these infections in pets underscores the risk of transmission to humans.
- Continuous research in veterinary mycology is essential for effective management and prevention.
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