Disease: mycosis

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

A wild South American grey fox found near Santiago, Chile was treated for a skin infection caused by a fungus called Nannizzia gypsea. This is the first time this particular fungus has been documented in foxes, raising concerns about how increasing contact between domestic animals, wildlife, and humans due to urbanization may spread fungal diseases. The fox was successfully treated with topical antifungal cream, and the fungus was found to be susceptible to all tested antifungal medications.

Read More »

Dermatophytosis caused by Trichophyton benhamiae in a sea lion. First report

A 13-year-old sea lion in a marine park developed ringworm-like skin lesions caused by a fungus called Trichophyton benhamiae, marking the first time this fungus has been identified in this species. Scientists identified the fungus using DNA testing and found it was resistant to common antifungal drugs, so they treated it with a combination of oral medication (terbinafine), topical ozonized oil, and a liver-protecting supplement. After three months of treatment, the sea lion’s skin healed completely.

Read More »

Deep cutaneous fungal infection in an immunocompetent individual caused by a biological pesticide: a rare case report

A 66-year-old farmer developed recurring skin infections over 10 years from exposure to a biological pesticide containing a fungus called Purpureocillium lilacinum. Although this fungus is generally safe for healthy people, this case shows it can cause serious skin infections with prolonged exposure. The patient was successfully treated with antifungal medication over three months. This case highlights the importance of proper safety measures when working with biological pesticides.

Read More »

Fungal Δ9-fatty acid desaturase: a unique enzyme at the core of lipid metabolism in Aspergillus fumigatus and a promising target for the search for antifungal strategies

Certain dangerous fungal infections like aspergillosis are difficult to treat because current antifungal drugs have significant side effects or the fungi are developing resistance. Scientists have discovered that a specific enzyme called Δ9-fatty acid desaturase, which fungi need to make fats for their cell membranes, has a unique structure different from human cells. This structural difference offers a new opportunity to design antifungal drugs that could kill fungi without harming human cells, potentially providing safer and more effective treatments for serious fungal infections.

Read More »
Scroll to Top