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Development of an experimental model of Microsporum canis infection in cats
1Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53706.
Abstract:
An experimental infection model was developed for reliable induction of Microsporum canis skin infections in cats, using a defined number of macroconidia harvested from the fungus in culture. The strain of M. canis used produced highly fluorescent hairs under ultraviolet illumination. Kittens 8 to 9 weeks of age (n = 6) received 10(5) macroconidia applied topically to a closely-shaved area of skin. Sites were dressed with an occlusive bandage for 3 days, then grooming was restricted for an additional 4 weeks. Lesions were first observed 2 weeks after inoculation, enlarged over the following 6 to 8 weeks, then decreased in size and appeared healed at 12 to 14 weeks after inoculation. Cats often developed satellite lesions on the face, ears, or other body regions. The experimental infections strongly resembled moderately severe cases of naturally-occurring feline dermatophytosis in clinical patients. This experimental infection model will be useful for evaluation of topical and systemic treatments for feline M. canis infection.
Insights
A new experimental model reliably induces Microsporum canis skin infections in cats. This feline dermatophytosis model mimics natural infections and aids in testing new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Mycology
- Infectious Disease Modeling
Background:
- Microsporum canis is a common cause of feline dermatophytosis.
- Accurate experimental models are crucial for evaluating antifungal therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a reliable experimental model for Microsporum canis infection in cats.
- To establish a reproducible method for studying feline dermatophytosis.
Main Methods:
- Defined inoculation of kittens (n=6, 8-9 weeks old) with 10^5 M. canis macroconidia.
- Topical application to shaved skin, followed by occlusive dressing and grooming restriction.
- Monitoring lesion development, size, and spread over 14 weeks.
Main Results:
- Experimental infections closely resembled naturally occurring, moderately severe feline dermatophytosis.
- Lesions appeared at 2 weeks, enlarged over 6-8 weeks, and showed healing by 12-14 weeks.
- Fluorescent M. canis strain aided in visualization; satellite lesions were observed.
Conclusions:
- A reproducible experimental model for feline M. canis infection is established.
- This model will facilitate the assessment of topical and systemic treatments for feline dermatophytosis.
- The model's characteristics provide a valuable tool for research in feline fungal infections.
