Infection by Microsporum canis in Paediatric Patients: A Veterinary Perspective

Abstract

<i>Microsporum canis</i> is a dermatophyte fungus of which cats and dogs are recognized as the natural hosts. <i>M. canis</i> is also easily transmitted to humans, causing lesions to the glabrous skin (<i>tinea corporis</i>) and to the head (<i>tinea capitis</i>). The present study describes some cases of infection with <i>M. canis</i> in children from a veterinary perspective, highlighting some important features of this clinical entity (e.g., the necessity to identify the animal source of infection with appropriate diagnostic tests; the fact that infected cats may present with no or atypical dermatological signs; and the importance of the environment as a fungal reserve).