Feline sporotrichosis: Review

Abstract

Sporotrichosis is characterized as a zoonotic fungal infection caused by species of the Sporothrix schenckii complex that has been gaining importance in several regions of Brazil. In mammals the clinical picture presents in the chronic or acute form with the appearance of skin lesions and contaminated domestic felines present as one of its main vectors. The disease is considered a public health problem, since it mainly affects the population of endemic areas. Diagnosis is made with the identification and isolation of the fungus S. schenckii and the treatment of choice is carried out through the use of drugs of the class of azole antifungals such as ketoconazole, itraconazole and fluconazole. However, new treatment methods have been studied, such as the use of thymomodulin. Sporotrichosis is a neglected and still underdiagnosed disease, mainly due to lack of information and dissemination. In this context, taking into account its importance for the One Health, this review aims to address the definition of the disease in felines, as well as its etiopathogenesis, transmission, clinical signs, diagnosis, prophylaxis, control and the most current treatment tools.