[Mexican case of tinea incognito and granuloma de Majocchi acquired from a hedgehog]

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Medical Mycology
• Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

• Exotic pets, including ground hedgehogs, can harbor and transmit various zoonotic pathogens to humans.
• Common zoonoses associated with hedgehogs include salmonellosis, mycobacterial infections, protozoal infections (e.g., Cryptosporidium parvum), and dermatophytosis.
• Dermatophytosis, a fungal skin infection, represents a significant public health concern in human-animal interactions.

Observation:

• A case report details a male adult patient who developed a ringworm lesion and Majocchi granuloma on his hand.
• The patient had recently acquired a pet ground hedgehog.
• The clinical presentation was initially suggestive of a less common fungal infection.

Findings:

• Mycological culture and molecular biology techniques identified the etiological agent as *Trichophyton erinacei*.
• *Trichophyton erinacei* is a dermatophyte commonly associated with hedgehogs.
• This specific fungal species was confirmed as the cause of the patient's skin lesions.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for *Trichophyton erinacei* transmission from exotic pets like ground hedgehogs to humans.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal treatment, such as oral terbinafine, are crucial for managing these zoonotic infections.
• Public awareness regarding the zoonotic risks associated with exotic pet ownership is essential for prevention.