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Feline cryptococcosis: a retrospective evaluation
S Gerds-Grogan1, B Dayrell-Hart
1Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6010, USA.
Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Cryptococcus neoformans is a common fungal disease in cats, often affecting males more than females. Neurological and eye issues were more prevalent in these feline cryptococcosis cases, with limited treatment success for central nervous system involvement.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cryptococcus neoformans is the primary cause of systemic fungal disease in felines.
- Feline cryptococcosis presents a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in veterinary practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze clinical findings and outcomes of cryptococcosis in 19 cats.
- To identify trends in feline cryptococcosis, including neurological and ophthalmological manifestations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of 19 feline cryptococcosis patients at a veterinary hospital (1986-1995).
- Evaluation of clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and treatment responses, with a focus on neurological and ophthalmological involvement.
Main Results:
- Increased neurological and ophthalmological involvement was observed compared to previous studies.
- Male cats were more frequently affected; season and environment influenced disease onset.
- Urinary Cryptococcus detection may be underestimated due to misidentification with fat droplets.
- Ketoconazole treatment was ineffective for central nervous system (CNS) cryptococcosis.
Conclusions:
- Feline cryptococcosis exhibits varied clinical presentations, with a notable increase in neurological and ophthalmological signs.
- Early diagnosis and targeted treatment strategies are crucial for improving outcomes in feline cryptococcosis, especially CNS cases.