TLDR Pets in Egypt can pass skin fungus, especially Microsporum canis, to humans, with outdoor and young pets being more at risk.
The study conducted in Egypt from July 2018 to September 2019 included 245 dogs, 180 cats, and 60 humans and aimed to determine the prevalence of dermatophytes among them. It found that 20.4% of dogs, 16.1% of cats, and 31.6% of humans were infected with dermatophytes, with Microsporum canis being the most common in dogs (10.2%) and the only one in cats (8.3%). Outdoor pets had higher infection rates than indoor pets, and puppies were particularly susceptible. In humans, M. canis showed the highest zoonotic potential, especially among people aged 11-30 years and pet workers. The study concluded that there is a significant risk of zoonotic transmission of dermatophytes, particularly M. canis, from pets to humans, and highlighted the importance of molecular techniques for diagnosis.
113 citations,
August 2016 in “Mycopathologia” New topical antifungals and delivery systems are improving treatment for fungal skin infections, but patient education and prevention are key.
72 citations,
June 2013 in “Journal of feline medicine and surgery” The document says to treat cat fungal infections with medicine and clean the environment, noting that cats without symptoms can still spread it to humans.
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December 2010 in “Preventive Veterinary Medicine” Young dogs and cats in Western Turkey often have skin infections caused by fungi, especially Microsporum canis.
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6 citations,
May 2015 in “Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice” Horse skin diseases are complex to manage and often require a biopsy for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
