Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Coccidioidomycosis in dogs and cats: a review.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 2008
- Authors:
- Graupmann-Kuzma, Angela et al.
- Affiliation:
- College of Veterinary Medicine · United States
Plain-English summary
Coccidioidomycosis is an infection caused by certain fungi that can affect dogs and cats, especially those living in or visiting areas where these fungi are common. The infection usually starts in the lungs and can lead to a long-lasting cough. It can also spread to other parts of the body, causing issues like skin problems, bone pain, heart issues, eye problems, or nervous system disorders. To diagnose this condition, veterinarians look for specific signs on X-rays and may perform blood tests, but they need to find the fungi in tissue samples for a definite diagnosis. If your pet has been in a high-risk area and shows signs of a long-term illness, breathing problems, lameness, swollen lymph nodes, skin sores that won't heal, or issues with the nervous system, eyes, or heart, it’s important to discuss this possibility with your veterinarian.
Abstract
The dimorphic fungi Coccidioides immitis and Coccidioides posadasii are the causative agents of coccidioidomycosis. Dogs and cats residing in and visiting endemic areas are at risk of exposure to infectious arthrospores. The primary infection is pulmonary and frequently results in chronic cough. Disseminated disease is common and causes cutaneous, osseous, cardiac, ocular, nervous system, or other organ disease. Radiographic changes include a variable degree of interstitial pulmonary infiltration, hilar lymphadenopathy, and osseous lesions. Serological titers support the diagnosis, but definitive diagnosis relies on identification of Coccidioides in cytological or tissue samples. Coccidioidomycosis should be considered in any dog or cat that has been potentially exposed during the previous 3 years and is presented with chronic illness, respiratory signs, lameness, lymphadenopathy, nonhealing cutaneous lesions, or neurological, ocular, or cardiac abnormalities.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18762558/