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Diagnostic results in animal dermatophytoses
1Institute for Microbiology and Virology, University Witten/Herdecke, Germany.
Summary
Superficial mycoses are common in pets and domestic animals. This study identified dermatophyte prevalence in various animal species, finding Trichophyton equinum in horses, Trichophyton mentagrophytes in rodents, and Microsporum canis in cats.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Dermatology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Superficial mycoses and asymptomatic dermatophyte carriage are prevalent in domestic animals and pets.
- Dermatophytosis significantly impacts animal health and can pose a zoonotic risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of dermatophyte and yeast infections in various animal species presenting with superficial mycosis.
- To identify specific dermatophyte species commonly isolated from affected animals.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic and cultural examination of 606 clinical skin lesion specimens from horses, dogs, cats, small rodents, birds, and rabbits.
- Use of cycloheximide-supplemented medium for fungal culture, noting contamination challenges in equine samples.
Main Results:
- Microscopic examination revealed fungal elements in 24.6% of samples.
- Cultural examination showed a 10% positivity rate for dermatophytes or yeasts among examinable samples.
- High contamination rates (36%) in equine samples with cycloheximide medium hindered dermatophyte identification.
- Identified prevalent dermatophytes: Trichophyton equinum (horses), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (small rodents), and Microsporum canis (cats).
Conclusions:
- Dermatophytosis is a significant concern in domestic animals, with varying prevalence across species.
- Accurate diagnosis requires careful consideration of sample type and potential contamination, especially in horses.
- Identification of specific causative agents like T. equinum, T. mentagrophytes, and M. canis aids in targeted treatment and control strategies.