Dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi in cats and dogs

Mycoses
|December 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi, primarily Microsporum canis, were found in 75% of cats and 36.9% of dogs. The mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae may aid fungal dispersal, suggesting acaricide use for prophylaxis.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Mycology
  • Animal Dermatology
  • Environmental Microbiology

Background:

  • Fungal infections, particularly dermatophytosis, are common in domestic animals.
  • Identifying causative agents and transmission routes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
  • The role of ectoparasites in the dissemination of fungal pathogens warrants investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi in cats and dogs.
  • To determine the prevalence of specific fungal species and genera.
  • To explore the potential role of the mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae in fungal transmission.

Main Methods:

  • Fungal isolation from hair samples of cats and dogs over an 11-month period.
  • Identification of isolated dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi.
  • Observation of mite infestation on fungal cultures.

Main Results:

  • Dermatophytes and keratinophilic fungi were isolated from 75% of cats and 36.9% of dogs.
  • Microsporum canis was the most prevalent isolate in both species.
  • The mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae was frequently found on M. canis cultures, suggesting a role in fungal carriage.

Conclusions:

  • Fungal infections are prevalent in cats and dogs, with M. canis being a significant pathogen.
  • The mite T. putrescentiae may act as a vector for fungal dispersal among animals.
  • Acaricide treatment could be a valuable adjunct to antifungal prophylaxis in animals.

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