Cryptococcosis in cats

Abstract

Efficient preventive measures have not been demonstrated. Vaccines are not available.

Blepharitis due to Cryptococcus neoformans in a cat from northern Portugal

“…1,5 Feline cryptococcosis is caused by basidiomycetous encapsulated yeasts of the genus Cryptococcus (Tremellomycetes: Tremellaceae) belonging to the Cryptococcus neoformans–Cryptococcus gattii complex. 2,4,6–8 Based on molecular characterisation methods, this complex includes eight genotypes (VNI, VNII, VNIII, VNIV, VGI, VGII, VGIII, VGIV) with varying geographical distribution, virulence and antimicrobial susceptibility. 2,4 The environmental reservoir of C neoformans is usually related to bird faeces, particularly pigeon droppings.…”

“…1,2,6,11 The incubation period varies from months to years, with the source of infection often remaining unknown. 1,2,6,11,12 The most frequent clinical manifestation of feline cryptococcosis is associated with the nasal form, but the disease can occur in several other distinct clinical forms, with involvement of the central nervous system (CNS), ocular, cutaneous, lymph nodes, and even pulmonary, abdominal and periarticular connective tissues. 3,4 Ocular lesions are a common manifestation of systemic cryptococcosis (observed in about one-third of clinical cases), primarily manifesting as multifocal chorioretinitis.…”

“…1,2,4,6 PCR allows identification of the implicated species and genotype. 6 The treatment of feline cryptococcosis usually combines surgical excision of localised granulomas and administration of antifungal azole drugs, such as fluconazole, itraconazole and ketoconazole. However, cats with CNS infection and/or systemic disease often need treatment with amphotericin B plus flucytosine.…”

“…However, cats with CNS infection and/or systemic disease often need treatment with amphotericin B plus flucytosine. 2,6,14 Therapy should be maintained until at least 2–4 months after the resolution of clinical signs. 6 The prognosis for feline cryptococosis is good to excellent when the disease is diagnosed in the early stages.…”

“…2,6,14 Therapy should be maintained until at least 2–4 months after the resolution of clinical signs. 6 The prognosis for feline cryptococosis is good to excellent when the disease is diagnosed in the early stages. 1,5,12 Nevertheless, CNS involvement negatively affects prognosis.…”