Dermatomycosis (Ringworm) in Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus).

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Mycology
• Wildlife Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Dermatomycosis is a fungal skin infection that can affect various animal species.
• Ringworm, a common form of dermatomycosis, has been reported in domestic animals.
• Information on fungal skin infections in wild ungulates remains limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe cases of dermatomycosis in wild mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus).
• To identify the causative fungal agent.
• To document the clinical presentation and severity of the infections.

Main Methods:

• Clinical examination of affected mule deer.
• Fungal culture and identification from skin lesions.
• Documentation of lesion location and extent.

Main Results:

• Six mule deer presented with dermatomycosis.
• Trichophyton verrucosum was isolated from four of the affected animals.
• Lesions were mild and non-debilitating, predominantly on the legs (five animals) and face (two animals).

Conclusions:

• Trichophyton verrucosum can cause mild dermatomycosis in wild mule deer.
• This represents the second documented report of ringworm in a North American wild ungulate.
• Further surveillance may be warranted to understand the prevalence and impact of fungal skin diseases in wildlife populations.