Survey of Animal Ringworm in the United States

A study conducted from August 1953 to August 1955 investigated the prevalence and causes of ringworm in animals across 32 U.S. states, involving 2,538 hair specimens from domestic, captive, and wild animals. Dermatophytes, the fungi responsible for ringworm, were isolated from 520 specimens (20%). Five pathogenic organisms were identified, with Mlierospornum canis being the most common in cats, dogs, and other animals. Lesions, primarily scaling and circular with alopecia, were found in 408 of the 520 affected animals, commonly on the head, neck, and leg. The study highlights the potential public health risk of animal ringworm spreading to humans.