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Sequential opportunistic infections in two German Shepherd dogs
M B Krockenberger1, G Swinney, P Martin
1The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Australian Veterinary Journal
|January 22, 2011
Summary
German Shepherd dogs may be prone to opportunistic fungal infections. This study details two cases of invasive fungal infections in German Shepherds, highlighting potential breed predilections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Canine Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Opportunistic fungal infections can cause severe disease in dogs.
- German Shepherd dogs may have a higher susceptibility to certain pathogens.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old German Shepherd developed cryptococcal rhinitis, optic nerve, and brain involvement, treated with amphotericin B, followed by disseminated Aspergillus deflectus infection.
- A 4-year-old German Shepherd had a deep-seated limb infection with Neosartorya fischeri, refractory to itraconazole, resolved by amputation, but later developed Pythium insidiosum infection.
Findings:
- Successful treatment of cryptococcal infection with amphotericin B was followed by a secondary Aspergillus infection.
- Surgical intervention was effective for limb infection, but Pythium insidiosum infection led to disseminated disease.
Implications:
- These cases suggest a breed predisposition in German Shepherds to invasive fungal and other saprophytic infections.
- Further research is warranted to understand the underlying mechanisms of this potential predilection.
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