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Feline histoplasmosis: fluconazole therapy and identification of potential sources of Histoplasma species exposure
Jennifer M Reinhart1, Kate S KuKanich, Tracey Jackson
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-5606, USA. jmreinha@vet.k-state.edu
Abstract:
Feline histoplasmosis is a systemic fungal infection often treated with itraconazole, which can be cost-prohibitive for some clients. Additionally, although the clinical disease in cats has been documented, sources of Histoplasma species spore exposure in cats have yet to be thoroughly investigated. The objectives of this study were to compare the outcomes of cats with histoplasmosis treated with fluconazole to those treated with itraconazole, and to evaluate possible sources of exposure for affected cats. Medical records from feline patients with confirmed histoplasmosis (n = 32) at Kansas State University were systematically reviewed and follow-up was performed by owner telephone interview. Cats treated with fluconazole (n = 17) had similar mortality and recrudescence rates when compared with cats treated with itraconazole (n = 13). Thus, fluconazole may be a viable alternative therapy for the treatment of feline histoplasmosis. Eleven cats were housed strictly indoors and possible sources of exposure reported for these cats included potted plants (5/11) and unfinished basements (6/11).
Insights
Fluconazole offers similar outcomes to itraconazole for treating feline histoplasmosis, providing a potentially more affordable option. Indoor cats can be exposed to Histoplasma spores through sources like potted plants and basements.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Feline Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Feline histoplasmosis is a systemic fungal infection.
- Itraconazole is a common treatment but can be expensive.
- Understanding Histoplasma exposure sources in cats is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare treatment outcomes of fluconazole versus itraconazole in cats with histoplasmosis.
- Investigate potential sources of Histoplasma exposure in affected felines.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 32 feline patients with confirmed histoplasmosis.
- Owner telephone interviews for follow-up and exposure history.
- Comparison of mortality and recrudescence rates between treatment groups.
Main Results:
- Cats treated with fluconazole (n=17) showed similar mortality and recrudescence rates compared to those treated with itraconazole (n=13).
- Possible exposure sources identified in indoor cats included potted plants and unfinished basements.
Conclusions:
- Fluconazole may serve as a viable and potentially cost-effective alternative for treating feline histoplasmosis.
- Environmental factors like indoor plants and basements may contribute to Histoplasma exposure in cats.
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