Dermatophytosis cats an dog

Definition
Dermatophytosis is a fungal infection of the skin, hair or claw.

Etiology
Dermatophytosis is caused by infection with species of keratinophilic fungi. In cats the fungus comonly implicated is Microsporum canis an in the dogs it is Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton Mentagrophytes.

Incubation Period
Fluorescence produced by some dermatophytosis (Microsporum canis) can appear on the fur within 7 days of exposure and clinical signs within 1 to 4 weeks.

Pathophysiology
A cell mediated and humoral response is elicited after infection. The inflamatory reaction leads to increased epidermal proliferation. Persian cats many develop a nodular phase of deep furunculosis.

Clinical Signs
Dermatophytes usually grow only in keratinized tissues such as hair, nails and the outer layer of skin; the fungus usually stops spreading where it contacts living cells or areas of inflammation. Mucus membranes are not affected.
In cats symptomatic cases tend to be seen in kittens, with the early lesions found on the face, ears and paws. focal alopecia, with scaling miliary dermatitis or nodules to none at all (asymptomatic carriers). and crusting containing only a few broken hairs. In dogs, lesions may include draining tracts, vesicles, papules and pustules may be seen early in the infection.

Diagnosis
Fungal culture with macroconidia identification
Microscopic examination of hair
Skin biopsy

Treatment
Treatment should be used with systemic antifungal agent.
Griseofulvin is the treatment of choise although Itraconazole, ketoconazole and lefenuron have succes as well.

Management
In cases of Microsporum canis. owner should be advised to vacum the animal’s environment daily and to disenfectan cages and other surfacs with bleach

( source vet-zone )

 

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