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Dermatophytosis in a Chilean fox: first case of Nannizzia gypsea in Lycalopex griseus and the need for a one health approach

Summary

A young wild Chilean fox was found with a skin infection caused by a fungus called Nannizzia gypsea, which lives in soil and can infect animals and humans. This is the first time this fungus has been documented in foxes anywhere. Doctors treated the fox with an antifungal cream and it recovered completely. The case highlights how increasing urbanization and contact between domestic pets, wild animals, and humans can spread fungal diseases, emphasizing the need for a coordinated public health approach.

Background

Nannizzia gypsea is a geophilic dermatophyte that has been detected in humans, dogs, and cats, as well as some wild animals. However, no mycoses caused by N. gypsea have been previously reported in foxes. This case describes the first documented fungal infection in the South American grey fox (chilla fox) species.

Objective

To report the first clinical case of superficial mycosis caused by N. gypsea in a wild fox (Lycalopex griseus) and to emphasize the importance of a One Health approach in managing zoonotic fungal infections.

Results

Nannizzia gypsea was identified and confirmed through morphological characteristics and molecular analysis (GenBank accession codes PV558824 and PV555436). The isolate showed susceptibility to all seven antifungals tested. Topical 2% ketoconazole cream administered twice daily for 4 weeks resulted in complete remission of lesions by day 79, with mycological cure achieved 15 days later and no recurrence five months post-treatment.

Conclusion

This case represents the first documented N. gypsea infection in foxes and highlights the need for a One Health approach to fungal infections. The authors emphasize the importance of reporting such cases and understanding host-pathogen dynamics in the context of increasing interactions between domestic, wild, and human populations due to urbanization and human activities.
  • Published in:Medical Mycology Case Reports,
  • Study Type:Case Report,
  • Source: PMID: 40937126, DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2025.100725
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