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Gastric mucormycosis in a cat
Emilio Mavilio1, Enrico Bottero2
1Freelance Gruppo Endovet, Bergamo, Italy.
JFMS Open Reports
|February 14, 2025
Summary
This case report details gastric mucormycosis, a rare fungal infection, in a Ragdoll cat. The disease progressed rapidly, leading to fatal septic peritonitis despite initial antifungal treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Mycology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Mucormycosis is a rare, invasive fungal infection.
- Gastrointestinal mucormycosis is exceptionally uncommon in felines.
Observation:
- A young Ragdoll cat presented with vomiting and abdominal pain.
- Ultrasonography and endoscopy revealed gastric neoformations.
- Cytology and histology confirmed fungal hyphae consistent with mucormycosis.
Findings:
- The cat was diagnosed with severe necrotising and granulomatous gastritis due to mucormycosis.
- Initial treatment with ketoconazole provided temporary improvement.
- The condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to septic peritonitis and euthanasia.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of gastric mucormycosis in a cat.
- The rapid progression and fatal outcome highlight the aggressive nature of this disease in felines.
- Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for managing this rare condition.
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