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Basidiomycosis: Schizophyllum commune osteomyelitis in a dog
Hiroji Tanaka1, Kayoko Takizawa, Osamu Baba
1Tanaka Animal Hospital, Tottori, Japan. tanaka-vet@aioros.ocn.ne.jp
The Journal of Veterinary Medical Science
|December 6, 2008
Summary
A rare fungal infection, canine basidiomycosis, caused by Schizophyllum commune led to osteomyelitis in a Labrador retriever. The dog was successfully treated with itraconazole.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Canine Pathology
Background:
- Osteomyelitis is a serious bone infection in dogs.
- Mycotic infections are less common causes of osteomyelitis compared to bacterial infections.
Observation:
- A six-year-old Labrador retriever presented with hindlimb lameness due to osteomyelitis.
- A puncture wound from a rotted bamboo stick was the suspected infection source.
- The dog had pre-existing aortic stenosis but was otherwise systemically stable.
Findings:
- Cytology and pathology confirmed mycotic osteomyelitis.
- Mycological and DNA testing identified Schizophyllum commune as the causative agent.
- Antibiotic sensitivity testing indicated itraconazole susceptibility.
Implications:
- This case highlights Schizophyllum commune as a rare cause of canine basidiomycosis.
- Successful treatment with itraconazole suggests its efficacy for this specific fungal infection.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering fungal etiologies in refractory canine osteomyelitis cases.
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