Cryptococcosis in Pets causes Signs and Treatment
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Cryptococcosis is a common fungal disease that occurs in humans and animals. According to the Merck Vetinary Manual, the areas that may be affected include the respiratory tract, central nervous system, eyes and skin. It is important to understand the details of this condition so that you can get your pet the correct treatment should he or she be affected.
Causes
Cryptococcosis is caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans. It is found naturally in the form of yeast. Some areas where it may reside include fowl manure and the soil. Your pet may get it by inhaling spores. Alternatively he or she may have a wound that gets exposed to the yeast. Cats experience it the most often but other pets such as dogs, horses and birds can also get it.
Animals are more susceptible to Cryptococcus if they have a weakened immune system. It is present in many animals, but may stay localized if the animal is strong and healthy. According to Pet Education, it is present in 14% of the nasal cavities of healthy dogs and 7% of the nasal passages of cats. It may never show any systems unless it progresses.
Signs
Different animals show different symptoms in response to the disease. Cats will often show upper respiratory signs. Your cat may sneeze a lot or have nasal discharge. He or she may display bumps in the nostril or inflammation above the bridge of the nose. Lesions may occur on the skin.
Because the central nervous system may be affected, your pet may seem depressed. The condition can cause a change in personality, seizures, circling, blindness and other problems with the eyes.
Dogs will show many symptoms as well. About half of them have lesions in the respiratory tract. The signs related to the central nervous system or optic nerves may be noticed.
Treatment
The exact treatment for Cryptococcosis will depend on the type of animal as well as the areas affected. It is often treated with Fluconazole or itraconazole. Another drug that may be utilized is Amphotericin B. Sometimes a combination of drugs is utilized to protect against drug resistance.
It is important to visit your veterinarian if your pet is displaying any of the symptoms of Cryptococcosis. He or she will do an examination and look for signs of the condition. The veterinarian may be able to do a culture from urine, serum, tissue samples, or other samples. With proper diagnosis, treatment can start promptly. Fortunately, treatment can be very effective when the condition is caught at an early time.