Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is an infection found in dogs, people, and occasionally cats. Blastomycosis has also been reported in other animals, including the horse, cow, cat, bat, and lion. Blastomycosis refers to the disease caused by the endemic dimorphic fungi Blastomyces dermatitidis. This disease occurs most commonly in defined geographic regions, hence its designation as an endemic mycosis. The incubation period may range from weeks to months. The disease usually affects people with compromised immune systems. The mold occurs in sandy, acid soils near river valleys or other waterways. Dog may contract blastomycosis under the right circumstances, certain populations are at greater risk. These include the hunting and sporting breeds since their use involves exposure to soil in wet areas. One study found that, while female dogs may have better survival rates with therapy, they are more likely to suffer relapses than males. The most common form of blastomycosis seen by veterinarians is the generalized or disseminated form, which spreads via the bloodstream or lymphatic system from the lungs to involve the eyes, brain, bone, lymph nodes, urogenital system, skin, and subcutaneous tissues.
Blasto grows in two ways. One form is called the fungal form, occurs in the environment and the organism creates microscopically tiny spores that, once is airborne, are able to pass far into the depths of the lungs. Blasto is easily inhaled into the dog's lungs. Infective spores are more likely to be present in organic soils such as are present along streams, lakes, ponds and even within the dried mud mortar of beaver lodges. Landscaping soil and even potting soil can harbor Blastomycosis organisms and any cat or dog digging up these soils may be exposed to Blastomycosis
Causes of Blastomycosis
The common causes of Blastomycosis
- Spread by blood to the skin.
- Contact with the soil.
Symptoms of Blastomycosis
The common symptoms of Blastomycosis
- Shortness of breath.
- Muscular stiffness.
- Skin lesions.
- Chills.
- Chest pain.
- Fatigue.
- Night sweats.
- General discomfort.
- Uneasiness.
- Ill-feeling.
- Weight loss.
- Myalgia.
- Listlessness.
- Exercise intolerance.
Treatment of Blastomycosis
The common treatment of Blastomycosis
- Amphotericin B.
- Ketoconazole.
- Itraconazole.
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