Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Feline Exophiala spinifera fungal infection case in Brazil
By Ferreira, Mariana Almeida et al.·Published in Brazilian journal of microbiology : [publication of the Brazilian Society for Microbiology]·2025·School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Brazil·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: A novel case of feline Exophiala spinifera disease in Americas: review integrating diagnosis and clinical.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A free-roaming domestic cat in Brazil was diagnosed with a serious fungal infection caused by Exophiala spinifera, which led to severe health decline and ultimately euthanasia. The cat also tested positive for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and was suspected to have a type of cancer. Despite treatment with itraconazole, the cat's condition worsened significantly. This case emphasizes the need for veterinarians to consider this type of fungal infection when diagnosing sick cats.
People also search for: cat fungal infection treatment · feline immunodeficiency virus symptoms · cat cancer diagnosis · Exophiala spinifera in cats
Abstract
We report the first case of phaeohyphomycosis caused by the dematiaceous dimorphic fungus Exophiala spinifera in a free-roaming domestic cat from the Americas, specifically diagnosed in the Central-West Region of Brazil, which progressed to euthanasia due to severe clinical deterioration. A comprehensive diagnostic approach was employed, integrating epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, mycological, and molecular analyses to confirm the fungal infection. In addition to the fungal infection, the cat tested seropositive for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and was suspected of having seromucous adenocarcinoma. The response of E. spinifera to itraconazole (ITZ) therapy and the post-mortem findings are also presented. This case highlights the importance of considering Exophiala species in the differential diagnosis of fungal infections in animals. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and potential ecological implications of E. spinifera, offering valuable insights for veterinarians, researchers, and clinicians involved in the management of zoonotic mycoses.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40849406/