Mandibular Blastomycosis in a 5-Year-Old Dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Mycology
• Infectious Diseases in Animals
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Blastomycosis is a fungal infection caused by *Blastomyces dermatitidis*, primarily affecting the lungs but can manifest in other organs.
• Localized oral blastomycosis is rare, particularly in veterinary medicine, presenting unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
• Limited data exists on the efficacy of specific antifungal treatments for localized canine blastomycosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case of localized oral mandibular blastomycosis in a canine patient.
• To evaluate the therapeutic outcome of itraconazole treatment in this case.
• To review and compare diagnostic and treatment modalities for localized blastomycosis in dogs and humans.

Main Methods:

• A five-year-old dog diagnosed with localized oral blastomycosis was treated with itraconazole at 5 mg/kg/day.
• Clinical signs and oral radiographic changes were monitored throughout the treatment period.
• A Mira Vista *Blastomyces* urine antigen test by Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) was used for follow-up assessment at one year.

Main Results:

• Complete resolution of clinical signs and oral radiographic abnormalities was achieved after four and a half months of itraconazole therapy.
• The canine patient tested negative for *Blastomyces* antigens one year post-treatment, indicating sustained remission.
• Literature review provided comparative insights into human and canine blastomycosis cases and treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

• Itraconazole is an effective treatment for localized oral mandibular blastomycosis in dogs, leading to complete clinical and radiographic resolution.
• Urine antigen testing is a valuable tool for monitoring treatment efficacy and confirming the absence of *Blastomyces* infection.
• Further research into localized blastomycosis presentations and optimal treatment protocols in veterinary medicine is warranted.