Natural disasters and the rise of zoonotic diseases: A case of post-earthquake disseminated cryptococcosis in a dog

Abstract

Cryptococcosis is a systemic zoonotic disease that is challenging to diagnose based on clinical findings in cats and dogs due to the nonspecific nature of its clinical presentation. This case report aims to document the first confirmed case of disseminated cryptococcosis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans in a dog in Turkey and to highlight the potential link between natural disasters such as earthquakes and the emergence of zoonotic diseases in domestic animals. A two-and-a-half-year-old spayed female Cocker Spaniel presented with increased respiratory sounds, skin lesions, facial swelling and enlarged lymph nodes. These symptoms appear to be a complication of Demodex infestation due to the stress experienced by the dog following exposure to a severe earthquake. Diagnostic procedures including cytologic examination, fungal culture and DNA sequence analysis, which confirmed the infection was caused by C. neoformans. Due to the delay in the correct diagnosis of the disease, which, contrary to common data, started as an allergic reaction on the skin and was later diagnosed as a Demodex infestation, the dog died of severe respiratory failure during the treatment with itraconazole. The case highlights the critical role of veterinary emergency and critical care in the diagnosis and management of zoonotic diseases post-natural disasters. It also highlights the need for increased awareness and preparedness among veterinary professionals to address animal health challenges following such events.