Dermatophytes and other keratinophilic fungi causing ringworm of horses.

This research paper examined the occurrence of fungal infections, including ringworm, in horses, finding that horses less than two years old are particularly susceptible. Trichophyton equinum was identified as the most prevalent culprit behind these infections.

Study Background

• The study centers around the prevalence of dermatophyte and keratinophilic fungal infections – more commonly known as ringworm – in horses.
• It emphasizes the role of these fungi in infections seen on the skin or hair of horses.
• The study particularly focused on identifying the specific strains of fungi responsible for these infections.

Methodology

• The study sample comprised 60 horses that were showing skin lesions. All of these were then tested for a fungal infection.
• The researchers collected and analyzed specimens from these animals, looking for evidence of both cycloheximide-resistant and keratinophilic fungi.

Results

• Of the 60 horses tested, 42% were found to be infected with a fungus.
• Horses under the age of two were observed to be more prone to such infections.
• Fourteen species of fungi, belonging to nine different genera, were isolated from the specimens collected.
• Within this, the Trichophyton genus was found to be dominant with T.equinum being the most common species within it.

Conclusion & Implications

• This research concluded that the Trichophyton genus, with T.equinum as the most common species, was the main cause of ringworm in horses.
• Beyond just the dermatophytes, several keratinophilic fungal species were also isolated.
• These fungi, present on the hairs and skin of horses can, under certain conditions, become invasive, causing primary or secondary infections.
• This discovery underscores the importance of early detection and treatment of fungal infections in horses, especially those under two years of age.