Dermatophytosis due to Microsporum persicolor: a retrospective study of 16 cases

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Mycology
• Canine Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Dermatophytosis is a common superficial fungal infection affecting dogs.
• Microsporum persicolor is a less common but significant cause of dermatophytosis in canines.
• Hunting dogs may have increased exposure to environmental fungal pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical and histopathological features of dermatophytosis caused by Microsporum persicolor in dogs.
• To evaluate the treatment outcomes and recurrence rates associated with this specific fungal infection.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis of 16 dogs diagnosed with Microsporum persicolor dermatophytosis.
• Review of clinical presentation, lesion distribution, and histopathological findings.
• Assessment of treatment response and follow-up for recurrence.

Main Results:

• Hunting dogs were disproportionately affected (12/16 cases).
• Facial lesions were universal, accompanied by alopecia, erythema, scaling, and crusting.
• Histopathology revealed folliculitis and lichenoid interface dermatitis; fungal cultures were consistently positive.
• Antifungal therapy (enilconazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin) led to clinical resolution in most cases.

Conclusions:

• Microsporum persicolor is a notable cause of dermatophytosis in dogs, especially hunting breeds.
• Clinical signs include facial lesions, alopecia, and inflammatory changes.
• Effective treatment is achievable with standard antifungals, but environmental re-exposure, particularly from rodents, can lead to recurrence.