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Dermatophytosis of camels
Summary
Ringworm in camels is common, with Trichophyton verrucosum infecting over 25% of young animals. Hair analysis revealed similar amino acid compositions across humans, camels, and cows.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Ringworm is a fungal infection affecting various animal species.
- Dermatophytes, such as Trichophyton species, are common causes of ringworm.
- Camels can be reservoirs for zoonotic dermatophyte infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey ringworm prevalence in camels.
- To identify the predominant Trichophyton species infecting camels.
- To compare the amino acid composition of hair from different species.
Main Methods:
- Veterinary examination of camels for ringworm lesions.
- Fungal culture and identification of causative agents.
- Amino acid analysis of hair samples from humans, camels, and cows.
Main Results:
- Over 25% of young camels surveyed were infected with Trichophyton verrucosum.
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes was found in fewer than 0.5% of camels.
- Amino acid analysis showed hair compositions were similar within 11% across humans, camels, and cows.
Conclusions:
- Trichophyton verrucosum is a significant cause of ringworm in young camels.
- Camels may share similar hair biochemistry with humans and cows.
- Further research is warranted on the potential for camel-to-human transmission of ringworm.