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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Cat with nontuberculous mycobacterial skin infection diagnosis

By Krajewska-Wędzina, Monika et al.·Published in Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine : AAEM·2019·National Veterinary Research Institute·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Nontuberculous mycobacterial skin disease in cat; diagnosis and treatment - Case report.

Species:
cat
Skin & coatCats

Plain-English summary

A domestic cat developed painful, pus-filled skin lesions that took four months to diagnose as a mycobacterial skin infection, which can be contagious to humans. The cat's symptoms included granulomatous lesions and fistulas, which raised concerns about spreading the infection. Advanced diagnostic techniques were used to identify the issue, but treatment was complicated by the risk of antimicrobial resistance. It's important for pet owners to be aware of such infections and consult their veterinarian if they notice unusual skin problems in their pets.

People also search for: cat skin infection treatment · why does my cat have pus-filled lumps · mycobacterial infection in cats

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Mycobacterial diseases of humans and animals can be caused by mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT). The transmission of the infection primarily occurs via the respiratory or oral routes, but also via a damaged skin barrier. MOTT have high resistance to external factors; therefore, infected, undiagnosed animals can pose a risk for public health. CASE REPORT: The case study describes mycobacterial skin infection in a domestic cat. The correct diagnosis was reached four months after the appearance of the first clinical signs. Those were purulent, granulomatous lesions and fistulas, which could potentially act as a source of the infection for the owners and the veterinarian who cared for the animal. CONCLUSION: Despite using advanced diagnostic techniques, establishing the final cause of the cat's illness was a lengthy process. The skin lesions could contribute to the transmission of the bacteria in the environment. Non-targeted treatments could also cause antimicrobial resistance.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31559813/