J. Hein’s current address is synlab Augsburg GmbH, Gubener Straße 39, D-86156 Augsburg, Germany.
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Original article
Clinical signs, therapy and zoonotic risk of pet guinea pigs with dermatophytosis
Article first published online: 31 JUL 2012
DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.2012.02228.x
© 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH
Additional Information
How to Cite
Kraemer, A., Hein, J., Heusinger, A. and Mueller, R. S. (2013), Clinical signs, therapy and zoonotic risk of pet guinea pigs with dermatophytosis. Mycoses, 56: 168–172. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.2012.02228.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 26 FEB 2013
- Article first published online: 31 JUL 2012
- Submitted for publication 17 February 2012 , Revised 29 June 2012 , Accepted for publication 4 July 2012
- Abstract
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- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes ;
- dermatophyte infection;
- zoonosis;
- Cavia porcellus ;
- influencing parameters
Summary
Systematic studies about pet guinea pigs with dermatophytosis are rare. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical signs, therapy and zoonotic risk of pet guinea pigs with dermatophytosis. Questionnaires from both owners (n = 74) of pet guinea pigs with dermatophytosis and their veterinarians (n = 101) were analysed regarding clinical signs, therapy and data pertinent to zoonotic potential. Trichophyton (T.) mentagrophytes was found in 97% of cases. In the weeks preceding the onset of the clinical signs, a new guinea pig joined the household in 43% of cases. One third of the affected guinea pigs had lived in the household for less than 3 months. Predominant clinical signs were alopecia (83%), scaling (73%) and crusting (70%). The most commonly affected body site was the head (75%). In approximately one quarter of the cases humans showed clinical signs of dermatophytosis, in half the households, only children were affected. Skin lesions were seen most often on the face, the neck and the arms. Pet guinea pigs carrying dermatophytes must be considered a serious zoonotic risk for their owners, especially for children. A major risk factor for dermatophytosis seems to be a recent acquisition of a new guinea pig.