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Spontaneous dermatophytosis due to Microsporum canis in rabbits
Abstract:
Reports of naturally occurring Microsporum canis infection in the rabbit are rare. During the tenth week of a 91 day percutaneous toxicity study, 17 of 30 adult New Zealand white rabbits developed skin lesions varying from multiple papules to ringed lesions 1 X 2 cm in diameter. The lesions were not pruritic. Hair and scale samples taken from rabbits with lesions were cultured for dermatophytes. Based upon colony morphology and macroconidial characteristics, M canis identification was confirmed. At the time of necropsy, fluorescence was observed in three animals examined with a Wood's lamp, and of 10 rabbits that were positive on culture, seven were clinically normal. Microscopically, hair follicles contained spores and mycelia. The source of this outbreak was not determined. Tap water was cultured and found negative for pathogenic fungi. These findings document M canis infections in laboratory-housed New Zealand white rabbit, such an asymptomatic carrier state should be considered in this outbreak. The significance of dermatomycosis in laboratory animals is primarily as a zoonosis and a research complication.
Insights
Naturally occurring Microsporum canis infections were identified in laboratory rabbits during a toxicity study. This highlights the potential for asymptomatic carriers and the zoonotic risk of dermatomycosis in research settings.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Dermatology
- Laboratory Animal Science
Background:
- Naturally occurring Microsporum canis infections are infrequently reported in rabbits.
- Dermatomycosis in laboratory animals poses zoonotic risks and research complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document and characterize an outbreak of Microsporum canis infection in New Zealand white rabbits.
- To investigate the clinical presentation and diagnostic findings associated with the infection.
Main Methods:
- Skin lesions and hair/scale samples were collected from affected rabbits during a toxicity study.
- Dermatophyte culture and microscopic examination of hair follicles were performed for M. canis identification.
- Wood's lamp examination was utilized during necropsy.
Main Results:
- 17 out of 30 rabbits developed non-pruritic skin lesions.
- Microsporum canis was confirmed through culture and microscopic analysis.
- Asymptomatic infections were noted, with seven of ten culture-positive rabbits showing no clinical signs.
Conclusions:
- This study documents M. canis infections in laboratory-housed rabbits, including asymptomatic cases.
- The potential for asymptomatic carriers should be considered in future outbreaks.
- Dermatomycosis in laboratory animals presents significant zoonotic and research challenges.