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Nasal and retrobulbar mass in a cat caused by Pythium insidiosum
K W Bissonnette1, N J Sharp, M H Dykstra
1Department of Companion Animal, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27606.
Insights
A domestic cat was diagnosed with Pythium insidiosum infection affecting the nasal and retrobulbar regions. Diagnosis involved specific staining, antibody detection, and culture, with treatment yielding partial improvement.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Mycology
- Oomycete Infections
- Feline Pathology
Background:
- Pythium insidiosum, an Oomycete, can cause infections in various hosts.
- Nasal and retrobulbar infections are severe and challenging to treat.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Observation:
- A domestic shorthaired cat presented with nasal and retrobulbar signs suggestive of infection.
- Diagnostic criteria included histopathology with specific immunofluorescence staining for P. insidiosum, serological testing (immunodiffusion), and microbial culture.
- The cat received a 6-week course of ketoconazole, leading to initial clinical improvement.
Findings:
- The study confirmed Pythium insidiosum as the causative agent in a feline patient.
- Recurrence or progression of disease, indicated by proptosis, was observed after treatment cessation.
- This case highlights a domestic cat as a novel host for Pythium insidiosum.
Implications:
- This case expands the known host range of Pythium insidiosum to include domestic cats.
- It underscores the importance of considering Oomycete infections in complex feline inflammatory or infectious diseases.
- Further research into feline Pythiosis pathogenesis and treatment strategies may be warranted.
Abstract:
Nasal and retrobulbar infection caused by the Oomycete Pythium insidiosum is described in a cat. The diagnosis was established on three criteria. The staining of broad, sparsely septate hyphal elements in biopsy tissue using a fluorescein-labelled antiglobulin specific for P. insidiosum, detection of antibodies to P. insidiosum by an immunodiffusion test, and isolation of the aetiological agent in pure culture from the biopsy tissue. Treatment with ketoconazole for 6 weeks resulted in clinical improvement, but proptosis of the left eye slowly appeared after the discontinuation of treatment. This case represents a new host for P. insidiosum, namely, a domestic, shorthaired cat, from North Carolina, U.S.A.