Cutaneous cryptococcosis in a cat: case report and diagnostic approach
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36560/19520262254Keywords:
Capsule, Cryptococcus gattii, Yeasts, MALDI-TOF, Mycoses, India inkAbstract
This study describes a case of cutaneous cryptococcosis in a male mixed-breed semi-domiciled cat treated at the Veterinary Hospital of UFMT – Sinop Campus. The animal presented ulcerated lesions on the face, right auricular base, and cervical region, associated with submandibular lymphadenomegaly, apathy, and anorexia. For diagnosis, imprint cytology, fungal culture, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) were performed. Cytology revealed an intense inflammatory process with the presence of encapsulated yeasts compatible with Cryptococcus spp. In culture, convex, whitish-gray colonies with a mucoid appearance were observed. Microscopic evaluation of the culture using India ink staining demonstrated yeasts with a thin, almost imperceptible capsule, standing out against the dark background of the dye and producing the characteristic “starry sky” appearance of this fungus. To identify the species of the agent, MALDI-TOF was used, and the analysis identified the isolate as Cryptococcus gattii. Systemic antifungal therapy with itraconazole was instituted, associated with antibiotics, topical treatment, and nutritional support. Despite the therapeutic measures, the patient died after 30 days. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and the investigation of immunosuppressive factors, considering their influence on the prognosis of feline cryptococcosis.
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