Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Rare fungal infections in cats and how to prevent and treat them
By Lloret, Albert et al.·Published in Journal of feline medicine and surgery·2013·European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases. Albert.LLoret@uab.cat·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Rare systemic mycoses in cats: blastomycosis, histoplasmosis and coccidioidomycosis: ABCD guidelines on prevention and management.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A cat with respiratory issues and skin problems was diagnosed with a rare fungal infection after being exposed to an environment where such infections are common. The vet confirmed the diagnosis through tests that detected the fungus, and treatment involved a long course of antifungal medication, specifically itraconazole. With proper care and adherence to the treatment plan, the cat had a good chance of recovery. It's important for cat owners traveling to areas where these infections are found to be aware of the risks.
People also search for: cat respiratory problems treatment · cat skin issues fungal infection · antifungal treatment for cats
Abstract
OVERVIEW: Rare fungal infections, including those hitherto not reported in Europe, may occur sporadically in non-endemic areas, or imported cases may be seen. INFECTIONS: Blastomycosis is mainly seen in North America; no cases have been reported in Europe. Histoplasmosis, which is endemic in the eastern US, Central and South America, has been diagnosed in Japan and Europe. Coccidioidomycosis is endemic in the southwestern US, Central and South America; only one imported case has been reported in Europe. The primary mode of transmission is inhalation of conidia or spores from the environment. DISEASE SIGNS: Most feline cases present with a combination of clinical signs (mainly respiratory, along with skin, eye, central nervous system and bone). Lymphadenopathy and systemic signs may be present. DIAGNOSIS: Diagnosis is based on fungal detection by cytology and/or histology. Commercial laboratories do not routinely perform fungal culture. Diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis, which is more difficult, may be supported by antibody detection. TREATMENT: Treatment consists of prolonged systemic antifungal therapy, with itraconazole as the first-choice agent for histoplasmosis and blastomycosis. The prognosis is good if owner compliance is adequate and adverse drug effects do not occur. PREVENTION: Cat owners travelling to endemic areas should be warned about these diseases. There is no zoonotic risk.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23813828/