Nasal histoplasmosis in a cat: case report

Abstract

Histoplasmosis is an fungal disease caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which is characterized by being dimorphic and saprophyte. This pathology may have acute or chronic clinical character and result in subclinical, pulmonary or disseminated infection. It is characterized by being the second most common mycosis in cats, and in those with low morbidity and high mortality rates. The diagnosis can be obtained by fungal culture and the treatment is mainly based on itraconazole. In order to report a clinical case of feline histoplasmosis, the present study was performed. A four-year-old female cat with no defined breed was treated with a complaint of increased nasal volume. Hematological, biochemical, cytological tests of nasal nodulation, immunochromatographic test for feline viral immunodeficiency and feline viral leukemia were initially requested, and seven days later, fungal culture was requested. Hematological exams showed thrombocytopenia, platelet aggregates, neutrophilia leukocytosis and hypoalbuminemia. Immunochromatographic examination for both retroviruses were negative. On cytopathological examination, yeast structures suggestive of Cryptococcus sp. Were found, but in fungal culture these structures were compatible with Histoplasma capsulatum. Based on the results of the cytological examination, itraconazole 10 mg / kg twice daily for 60 days was prescribed for the patient, which should be started after fungal culture. The animal showed significant improvement after 7 days of drug use, with total nodular regression after 26 days of treatment. After 2 months of treatment, the medication was discontinued for 19 days by decision of the tutor and administration returned for another 30 days in order to prevent the remission of the condition. Thus, it can be concluded that nasal histoplasmosis is a fungal condition present in the clinical routine of felines, thus requiring the veterinarian's attention to symptomatology and complementary diagnostic methods, as well as the correct treatment and prognosis.