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Published on: December 15, 2023
Tinea corporis intrafamilial infection in pets due to Microsporum canis
Karla Yaeko Sierra-Maeda1, Fernando Martínez-Hernández2, Roberto Arenas3
1Hospital General ''Dr. Manuel Gea González'', Servicio de Dermatología, Tlalpan, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
Abstract:
Microsporum canis, one of the most widespread dermatophytes worldwide, is a zoonotic microorganism that transmits infection from reservoirs such as cats and dogs to humans. This microorganism is associated with Tinea corporis and other clinical manifestations; however, few studies have used genetic surveillance to determine and characterize the process of zoonotic transmission. In this study, we show a clear example of zoonotic transmission from a cat to an intrafamilial environment, where it caused Tinea corporis by infection with M. canis. Molecular characterization using the b-tubulin gene and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA analysis made it possible to determine that the six isolates of M. canis obtained in this study belonged to the same genetic variant or clone responsible for reservoir-reservoir or reservoir-human transmission.
Insights
This study tracked Microsporum canis, a fungus causing Tinea corporis, from a cat to a family. Genetic analysis confirmed a single clone responsible for the zoonotic transmission, highlighting its spread.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Zoonotic Disease Epidemiology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Microsporum canis is a prevalent dermatophyte causing zoonotic infections globally.
- Infections like Tinea corporis are common, but the genetic basis of M. canis zoonotic transmission is understudied.
- Genetic surveillance is crucial for understanding and controlling the spread of zoonotic pathogens.
Observation:
- A case of Tinea corporis in a human was linked to a domestic cat reservoir.
- Six M. canis isolates were obtained from the cat and infected human.
- The study investigated the genetic relatedness of these M. canis isolates.
Findings:
- Molecular characterization using the beta-tubulin gene and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was performed.
- All six M. canis isolates shared the same genetic profile.
- This indicates a single genetic variant or clone was responsible for the observed zoonotic transmission.
Implications:
- This research provides a clear genetic example of M. canis zoonotic transmission within a household.
- Understanding the genetic clonal nature of M. canis is vital for effective disease control strategies.
- The findings support the use of molecular tools in tracking dermatophyte transmission dynamics.
