Spread of Dermatophytic Granuloma to the Oral Cavity in a Short-haired Cat

Abstract

A male neutered Abyssinian-crossbred cat presented with a chief complaint of head and truncal alopecia, and was diagnosed with Microsporum canis infection. Fluconazole was initially started, but was discontinued by the owner 70 days later. Dermatophytic granuloma developed in the dermis of the left lower jaw 22 months later. Although itraconazole was effective, the granuloma recurred subsequently, and spread to the oral cavity. The cat died from cachexia suspected to be caused by feeding difficulty on day 921 following the initial presentation. This report highlights the relevance of dermatophytosis and dermatophytic granuloma in cats, and the importance of compliance with medication on the part of pet owners.