Criptococose respiratória e cutânea em gato de vida livre da cidade de Sobral/CE / Respiratory and cutaneous Cryptococcosis in a free-range cat in the city of Sobral/CE

A criptococose é uma doença infecciosa sistêmica de origem fúngica, causada pelas espécies: Cryptococcus neoformans e Cryptococcus gattii. É considerada uma micose oportunista capaz de infectar mamíferos domésticos, animais silvestres e seres humanos, sendo classificada como uma doença zoonótica. Esse patógeno é encontrado principalmente em ambientes contaminados por fezes de pombos (Columba livia), que atuam como importantes fontes de infecção do fungo. De acordo com sua disseminação para os tecidos do organismo, a doença pode causar diferentes síndromes tanto em seres humanos como em animais síndrome respiratória, síndrome neurológica, síndrome ocular e síndrome cutânea. O diagnóstico pode ser realizado através da pesquisa de antígeno polissacarídeo circulante no soro ou líquor, por meio da prova de látex. Testes imunoenzimáticos (ELISA) também podem ser realizados para detecção de antígenos dessa levedura. Exame citológico, histopatológico e cultura fúngica para a identificação do agente tornam o diagnóstico da criptococose mais fácil. O tratamento é baseado no uso de antifúngicos e sua escolha é realizada através da avaliação dos sinais clínicos observados. Diante do exposto, o objetivo deste trabalho é relatar um caso de criptococose respiratória e cutânea em felino doméstico de vida livre da cidade de Sobral/CE.

Cryptococcosis is a systemic infectious disease of fungal origin caused by the species: Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. It is considered an opportunistic mycosis capable of infecting domestic mammals, wild animals, and humans, being classified as a zoonotic disease. This pathogen is mainly found mainly in environments contaminated by pigeon (Columba livia) feces, which act as important sources of fungal infection. According to its spread to the body's tissues, the disease can cause different syndromes in both humans and animals: respiratory syndrome, neurological syndrome, ocular syndrome, and cutaneous syndrome. The diagnosis can be made through the investigation of circulating polysaccharide antigen in serum or cerebrospinal fluid using the latex test. Immunoenzymatic tests (ELISA) can also be performed to detect yeast antigens. Cytological examination, histopathological examination, and fungal culture to identify the agent make the diagnosis of cryptococcosis easier. The treatment is based on the use of antifungals, and its choice is made through the evaluation of the observed clinical signs. In this context, this work aims to report a case of respiratory and cutaneous cryptococcosis in a free-range domestic cat in the city of Sobral/CE.

Criptococoma retrobulbar mimetizando tumor em labrador retriever / Retrobulbar cryptococcoma mimicking tumor in a Labrador Retriever

Background: Cryptococcosis is a systemic mycotic disease caused by encapsulated yeasts C. neoformans and C. gattii. Cryptococcus neoformans is predominantly found in soils and feces of pigeons and psittacids. Infection occurs mainly through the respiratory tract, through the inspiration of fungal propagules (basidiospores and/or desiccated yeast cells). The main lesions observed are in the nasal cavity and lungs, but in dogs, the central nervous system and eyes are widely affected. Despite some previously mentioned reports, the retrobulbar form has not been described in the literature. Therefore, the purpose of this report is to describe a case of retrobulbar cryptococcoma mimetizing a tumor in a young bitch. Case: A 2-year-old female Labrador Retriever, was admitted to one Veterinary Hospital with exophthalmia on the left eye for 15 days and other signs included negative retropulsion, mydriasis, and abscence of menace and pupillary reflexes. Ocular ultrasound imaging revealed a hyperecotic and heterogeneous retrobulbar mass in the mid-dorsal region compressing the optic nerve. Computed tomography of the skull showed the presence of proliferation of neoplastic tissue in a locally invasive retrobulbar region promoting moderate rostrolateral displacement of the left ocular bulb, discrete osthelysis in maxillary bone, palatine, medial wall of the orbital bone and frontal bone, with destruction of cribiform plate adjacent to the dorsal region of the orbital wall and presence of mild contrast uptake in the region of the left olfactory bulb lobe, characterizing a picture compatible with neoplasia with malignancy and locally invasive characteristics. Exenteration and excision of part of the frontal bone were performed and histopathological examination revealed granulation with the presence of fibroblasts and numerous typical blastoconidia of Cryptococcus neoformans. The patient was treated with Itraconazole [10 mg/kg, v.o, SID, for 90 days] and one year after diagnosis, X-ray was performed to control the lesion and radiographic aspects were within normal limits. Discussion: Cryptococcus sp. is an environmental fungus that has the potential to be pathogenic to humans and animals. Fungus present as a basidiospores in pigeon droppings. The patient described had a history of contact with free-living pigeons, making it a risk factor for the occurrence of cryptococcosis, being the possible cause of the infection. In dogs, the disease is mainly described in immunosuppressed animals, which was not the case of the patient, who presented clinical and laboratory results within the normal range and without a previous history of use of immunosuppressants. The alterations described in the computed tomography, such as destruction of the cribriform plate adjacent to the dorsal region of the left orbital wall and the presence of slight contrast uptake in the left olfactory bulb lobe region, are compatible with the main entry point for propagules of Cryptococcus sp. In the present case, no periocular and ocular alterations were observed as described in the literature, and the lesion was restricted to the retrobulbar space. Ultrasonography and computed tomography revealed a neoformation mimicking a malignant neoplasm and the diagnosis of cryptococcoma was revealed by histopathology. Based on the present case, cytology through aspiration of retrobulbal neoformations is imperative as a diagnostic method, especially in endemic areas for fungal diseases that can mimic ocular neoplasms.

Cats with central nervous system cryptococcosis

Background: Cryptococcosis is a serious fungal infection contracted by humans and animals, and the most common systemic mycosis found in cats. This disease is often contracted through inhalation of fungal propagules. The Central Nervous System (CNS) may be infected through local extension (nasal and frontal sinuses) or via hematogenous route. Similarly to CNS bacterial infection, the clinical signs of neurological dysfunction may be attributed to mass effect (gelatinous mass of fungal microorganisms and fungal granuloma formation) or to a more disseminated inflammatory response to invading microorganisms. The objective of this study is to report one case of a patient with cryptococcal granulomas in the central nervous system and one case of a patient with neurological signs associated to a cryptococcosis. Cases: Case 1. A 3-year-old male mixed breed feline was admitted to a veterinary clinic, located in Porto Alegre, RS, Southern Brazil. The patient presented unsourced behavioral changes, vestibular ataxia and dysphagia caused by inability of coordination. The following tests were performed: complete blood count test, biochemical analysis, computed tomography scan (CT scan), fluid analysis, radiography and toxoplasmosis test. The following medicine were administrated for treatment: fluconazole, dexamethasone, mannitol, phenobarbital and levetiracetam. Fluid therapy was also part of the treatment. Immediately after death, the cat was submitted for necropsy, and a fungal granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis was diagnosed. Cryptococcus sp. was identified as the causal agent through pathological findings, fungal culture and PCR analysis. Case 2. One year later, another feline was admitted to the same clinic (a 2-year-old female mixed breed) presenting hypersalivation, tremors and excessive vocalization. The patient had contact with the deceased feline. The following tests were performed: complete blood count...

Cats with central nervous system cryptococcosis

Background: Cryptococcosis is a serious fungal infection contracted by humans and animals, and the most common systemic mycosis found in cats. This disease is often contracted through inhalation of fungal propagules. The Central Nervous System (CNS) may be infected through local extension (nasal and frontal sinuses) or via hematogenous route. Similarly to CNS bacterial infection, the clinical signs of neurological dysfunction may be attributed to mass effect (gelatinous mass of fungal microorganisms and fungal granuloma formation) or to a more disseminated inflammatory response to invading microorganisms. The objective of this study is to report one case of a patient with cryptococcal granulomas in the central nervous system and one case of a patient with neurological signs associated to a cryptococcosis. Cases: Case 1. A 3-year-old male mixed breed feline was admitted to a veterinary clinic, located in Porto Alegre, RS, Southern Brazil. The patient presented unsourced behavioral changes, vestibular ataxia and dysphagia caused by inability of coordination. The following tests were performed: complete blood count test, biochemical analysis, computed tomography scan (CT scan), fluid analysis, radiography and toxoplasmosis test. The following medicine were administrated for treatment: fluconazole, dexamethasone, mannitol, phenobarbital and levetiracetam. Fluid therapy was also part of the treatment. Immediately after death, the cat was submitted for necropsy, and a fungal granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis was diagnosed. Cryptococcus sp. was identified as the causal agent through pathological findings, fungal culture and PCR analysis. Case 2. One year later, another feline was admitted to the same clinic (a 2-year-old female mixed breed) presenting hypersalivation, tremors and excessive vocalization. The patient had contact with the deceased feline. The following tests were performed: complete blood count...(AU)

Criptococose em felino - Relato de caso / Cryptococcosis in a feline - case report

This paper analyzes a case report of cryptococcosis in a 11 years old crossbreed domestic feline, that was attended at Dr. Vicente Borelli"  Centro Universitário Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos Veterinary Hospital. The animal presented increased nasal volume. After physical examination, it was collected material from the lesion in order to do fungal culture and histologic analysis. It was observed pyogranulomatous dermatitis and presence of Cryptococcus spp., an microorganism able to affect humans, domestics and wild animals, corroborating the diagnosis of Cryptococcosis.

O presente trabalho analisa um caso de criptococose em um felino doméstico, sem raça definida, com 11 anos de idade, atendido no Hospital Veterinário "Dr. Vicente Borelli" do Centro Universitário Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos, São João da Boa Vista - SP. O animal apresentava aumento de volume em região nasal. Após exame clínico, foi realizada a colheita de material para exame de cultura fúngica e histopatológico. Neste último, observou-se uma dermatite piogranulomatosa e presença do microrganismo Cryptococcus spp., capaz de acometer humanos e animais domésticos e silvestres, confirmando o diagnóstico de Criptococose.

Criptococose em felino - Relato de caso / Cryptococcosis in a feline - case report

This paper analyzes a case report of cryptococcosis in a 11 years old crossbreed domestic feline, that was attended at Dr. Vicente Borelli"  Centro Universitário Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos Veterinary Hospital. The animal presented increased nasal volume. After physical examination, it was collected material from the lesion in order to do fungal culture and histologic analysis. It was observed pyogranulomatous dermatitis and presence of Cryptococcus spp., an microorganism able to affect humans, domestics and wild animals, corroborating the diagnosis of Cryptococcosis.(AU)

O presente trabalho analisa um caso de criptococose em um felino doméstico, sem raça definida, com 11 anos de idade, atendido no Hospital Veterinário "Dr. Vicente Borelli" do Centro Universitário Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos, São João da Boa Vista - SP. O animal apresentava aumento de volume em região nasal. Após exame clínico, foi realizada a colheita de material para exame de cultura fúngica e histopatológico. Neste último, observou-se uma dermatite piogranulomatosa e presença do microrganismo Cryptococcus spp., capaz de acometer humanos e animais domésticos e silvestres, confirmando o diagnóstico de Criptococose.(AU)

Pneumonia e leptomeningite criptocócica em felino: relato de caso / Cryptococcal pneumonia and leptomeningitis in feline: a case report

A criptococose é uma doença fúngica infecciosa, tegumentar e/ou sistêmica, crônica, de distribuição global, causada por levedura sa-próbia do gênero Cryptococcus que pode infectar humanos, animais silvestres e mamíferos domésticos, especialmente felinos domésticos. Duas espécies estão mais diretamente envolvidas com a doença: o Cryptococcus neoformans e o Cryptococus gattii, porém pacientes imunocomprometidos têm, como principal causador, o Cryptococcus neoformans. Todavia, O Cryptococcus gattii, além de afetar hospedei-ros imunossuprimidos, também pode causar a doença em indivíduos imunocompetentes. Este relato apresenta os achados clínicos e o diagnóstico firmado com o exame histopatológico de um caso de pneumonia e leptomeningite criptocócica em um felino, macho, sem raça definida, de cinco anos de idade, atendido no Hospital Veterinário “Dr. Vicente Borelli” – do Centro Universitário da Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos (Unifeob).

Cryptococcosis is a chronic, global, infectious, integumentary and/or systemic fungal disease caused by yeast from the genus Cryptococcus that can infect humans, wild animals and domestic mammals, especially domestic cats. Two species are most directly involved with the disease Cryptococcus neoformansand Cryptococcus gattii, but immunocompromised patients have, as the main cause, Cryptococcus neoformans. However, Cryptococcus gattii, despite affecting immunosuppressed hosts, can also cause disease in immunocompetent individuals. The present report presents the clinical findings and the diagnosis confirmed through the histopathological examination of a cryptococcal pneumonia and leptomeningitis case observed in a male feline, undefined breed, five-year-old, treated at the Veterinary Hospital “Dr. Vicente Borreli”– do Centro Universitário da Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos (Unifeob).

Pneumonia e leptomeningite criptocócica em felino: relato de caso / Cryptococcal pneumonia and leptomeningitis in feline: a case report

A criptococose é uma doença fúngica infecciosa, tegumentar e/ou sistêmica, crônica, de distribuição global, causada por levedura sa-próbia do gênero Cryptococcus que pode infectar humanos, animais silvestres e mamíferos domésticos, especialmente felinos domésticos. Duas espécies estão mais diretamente envolvidas com a doença: o Cryptococcus neoformans e o Cryptococus gattii, porém pacientes imunocomprometidos têm, como principal causador, o Cryptococcus neoformans. Todavia, O Cryptococcus gattii, além de afetar hospedei-ros imunossuprimidos, também pode causar a doença em indivíduos imunocompetentes. Este relato apresenta os achados clínicos e o diagnóstico firmado com o exame histopatológico de um caso de pneumonia e leptomeningite criptocócica em um felino, macho, sem raça definida, de cinco anos de idade, atendido no Hospital Veterinário “Dr. Vicente Borelli” do Centro Universitário da Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos (Unifeob). (AU)

Cryptococcosis is a chronic, global, infectious, integumentary and/or systemic fungal disease caused by yeast from the genus Cryptococcus that can infect humans, wild animals and domestic mammals, especially domestic cats. Two species are most directly involved with the disease Cryptococcus neoformansand Cryptococcus gattii, but immunocompromised patients have, as the main cause, Cryptococcus neoformans. However, Cryptococcus gattii, despite affecting immunosuppressed hosts, can also cause disease in immunocompetent individuals. The present report presents the clinical findings and the diagnosis confirmed through the histopathological examination of a cryptococcal pneumonia and leptomeningitis case observed in a male feline, undefined breed, five-year-old, treated at the Veterinary Hospital “Dr. Vicente Borreli”do Centro Universitário da Fundação de Ensino Octávio Bastos (Unifeob).(AU)

Criptococose intestinal em um cão: relato de caso / Intestinal cryptococcosis in a dog: a case report

A criptococose é uma micose sistêmica que em cães frequentemente está envolvida com lesões nos sistemas respiratório e nervoso central. O acometimento do sistema gastrointestinal por este fungo é considerada rara. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar um caso de criptococose intestinal em um cão, macho, da raça Boxer, de quatro anos, com histórico de êmese e diarreia sanguinolenta há cinco dias. Ao exame físico foi constatado dor abdominal e estrutura firme em região mesogástrica. Após realização de exame ultrassonográfico sugestivo de intussuscepção, realizou-se a celiotomia exploratória, e foi visualizada uma lesão nodular de 5 cm na parede do jejuno, retirada por enterectomia. O fragmento intestinal contendo a lesão foi encaminhado para análise histopatológica. Na macroscopia, a massa apresentava aspecto gelatinoso aos cortes, com superfície de corte compacta e tonalidade creme. No exame histopatológico, observou-se acentuada quantidade de estruturas leveduriformes, redondas ou ovoides, circundada por espessa cápsula, e discreto e difuso processo inflamatório mononuclear. A coloração pelo ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS) ajudou a confirmar a infecção pelo fungo do gênero Cryptococcus. Não foi possível dar continuidade ao caso, uma vez que o proprietário não retornou mais ao atendimento. Sugere-se que a porta de entrada da criptococose neste estudo, tenha sido através da ingestão da levedura desidratada, ou pela entrada do agente na extensa ulceração em jejuno, já que o mesmo pode ser encontrado em intestino delgado de cães saudáveis e de cães com enteropatia crônica. Conclui-se que, apesar da criptococose intestinal em cães ser considerada rara, recomenda-se a inclusão nos diagnósticos diferenciais de lesões que acometem os segmentos intestinais sem o envolvimento clínico de demais sistemas.(AU)

Cryptococcosis is a systemic mycosis and is often associated with lesions in the respiratory and central nervous systems in dogs. However, the involvement of the gastrointestinal system in this fungal infection is rare. This study reports a case of intestinal cryptococcosis in a 4-year-old male Boxer dog with a history of emesis and bloody diarrhea for five days. His physical examination revealed abdominal pain and a firm structure in the mesogastric region. After an ultrasound examination suggested intussusception, exploratory celiotomy was performed, and a 5 cm mass was visualized on the wall of the jejunum, which was subsequently removed by an enterectomy and sent for histopathological analysis. Macroscopically, the mass presented a gelatinous aspect, with a compact cut surface and cream shade. On histopathological examination, multiple leveduriform structures, round or ovoid, surrounded by a thick capsule, and discrete, diffuse mononuclear inflammatory processes were observed. Schiffs periodic acid staining confirmed the infection with a fungus of the genus Cryptococcus. It was not possible to continue the investigation because the owner did not return to the service. It is suggested that the entry point of cryptococcosis was through the ingestion of dehydrated yeast or through extensive jejunal ulceration, as it can be found in the small intestine of both healthy dogs and those with chronic enteropathy. Therefore, although intestinal cryptococcosis in dogs is rare, it is recommended to include it as a differential diagnosis for gastrointestinal lesions without the clinical involvement of other systems.(AU)

Diagnóstico de criptococose nasal em felino por meio da citologia aspirativa por agulha fina (Paaf) na região noroeste do Ceará / Diagnosis of cat nasal cryptococcosis using fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in northwestern Ceará

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection caused by a yeast of the genus cryptococcus that affects humans and domestic mammals, especially domestic cats, and the reports of this illness are scarce in the state of Ceará. It was discovered in a private clinic in the city of Sobral, Ceará, a feline presenting symptomatology similar to that found in animalswith cryptococcosis. By discarding other similar diseases and diagnosing a pathology, a fine needle score was performed in the affected region. A rapid and effective technique and method for identifying the causative agent of the condition. The disease evolved rapidly and two days after an animal collection for a death.

Diagnóstico de criptococose nasal em felino por meio da citologia aspirativa por agulha fina (Paaf) na região noroeste do Ceará / Diagnosis of cat nasal cryptococcosis using fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in northwestern Ceará

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection caused by a yeast of the genus cryptococcus that affects humans and domestic mammals, especially domestic cats, and the reports of this illness are scarce in the state of Ceará. It was discovered in a private clinic in the city of Sobral, Ceará, a feline presenting symptomatology similar to that found in animalswith cryptococcosis. By discarding other similar diseases and diagnosing a pathology, a fine needle score was performed in the affected region. A rapid and effective technique and method for identifying the causative agent of the condition. The disease evolved rapidly and two days after an animal collection for a death.(AU)

Ocorrência de pombos (Columba livia) e excretas em locais considerados potencialmente de risco para criptococose / Occurrence of pigeons (Columba livia) and excretas in places considered potentially of risk for cryptococosis

Pigeons have become increasingly adapted to life in the city and to the fellowship of man, however these synanthropic birds are responsible for transporting several microorganisms pathogenic to human health. The present work had as objective to carry out the survey of the presence of pigeons in places of agglomeration of people in the city of Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais. Visits were made to 51 previously defined places, analyzing the presence and absence of pigeons and droppings. In this study, it was demonstrated a high occurrence of pigeons and droppings in places with human agglomerations. The presence of pigeons was found in 60.7% (31/51) and excreta in 43.13% (22/51). Among the places visited are: educational units, health units, recreation units and other places such as the homes of the elderly and churches. The high occurrence of pigeons and droppings requires the adoption of sanitary measures and public policies in order to control the presence of pigeons and to prevent the spread of diseases transmitted by them.

Os pombos tornaram-se cada vez mais adaptados à vida na cidade e à comunidade do homem, no entanto, essas aves sinantrópicas são responsáveis pelo transporte de vários microrganismos patogênicos para a saúde humana. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo realizar o levantamento da presença de pombos em locais de aglomeração de pessoas na cidade de Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais. Foram realizadas visitas em 51 locais previamente definidos, analisando a presença e ausência de pombos e das excretas. Neste estudo, foi demonstrada elevada ocorrência de pombos e excretas em locais com aglomerações de humanos. A presença de pombos foi constatada em 60,7% (31/51) e a de excretas em 43,13% (22/51). Entre os locais visitados estão: unidades educacionais, unidades de saúde, unidades de recreação e outros locais como asilos e igrejas. Com a elevada ocorrência de pombos e excretas, faz-se necessária a adoção de medidas sanitárias e políticas públicas a fim de controlar a presença de pombos e prevenir a disseminação de doenças por eles veiculadas.

Ocorrência de pombos (Columba livia) e excretas em locais considerados potencialmente de risco para criptococose / Occurrence of pigeons (Columba livia) and excretas in places considered potentially of risk for cryptococosis

Pigeons have become increasingly adapted to life in the city and to the fellowship of man, however these synanthropic birds are responsible for transporting several microorganisms pathogenic to human health. The present work had as objective to carry out the survey of the presence of pigeons in places of agglomeration of people in the city of Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais. Visits were made to 51 previously defined places, analyzing the presence and absence of pigeons and droppings. In this study, it was demonstrated a high occurrence of pigeons and droppings in places with human agglomerations. The presence of pigeons was found in 60.7% (31/51) and excreta in 43.13% (22/51). Among the places visited are: educational units, health units, recreation units and other places such as the homes of the elderly and churches. The high occurrence of pigeons and droppings requires the adoption of sanitary measures and public policies in order to control the presence of pigeons and to prevent the spread of diseases transmitted by them.(AU)

Os pombos tornaram-se cada vez mais adaptados à vida na cidade e à comunidade do homem, no entanto, essas aves sinantrópicas são responsáveis pelo transporte de vários microrganismos patogênicos para a saúde humana. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo realizar o levantamento da presença de pombos em locais de aglomeração de pessoas na cidade de Ituiutaba, Minas Gerais. Foram realizadas visitas em 51 locais previamente definidos, analisando a presença e ausência de pombos e das excretas. Neste estudo, foi demonstrada elevada ocorrência de pombos e excretas em locais com aglomerações de humanos. A presença de pombos foi constatada em 60,7% (31/51) e a de excretas em 43,13% (22/51). Entre os locais visitados estão: unidades educacionais, unidades de saúde, unidades de recreação e outros locais como asilos e igrejas. Com a elevada ocorrência de pombos e excretas, faz-se necessária a adoção de medidas sanitárias e políticas públicas a fim de controlar a presença de pombos e prevenir a disseminação de doenças por eles veiculadas.(AU)

Cryptococcal sialoadenitis in a dog

Background: Salivary gland diseases in dogs have an overall incidence of 0.3%. Sialocele and sialoadenitis are the most common injuries and are usually caused by infectious diseases, especially of bacterial origin. Currently, Cryptococcus neoformans has not been registered as the etiological agent since fungal participation is unusual. This case report describes a cryptococcal sialoadenitis in a dog. Case: A 1.9-year-old male poodle had a swelling of the right submandibular region, combined with dry cough and snoring that persisted for about 30 days. The dog often walked in the town square, which has pigeons, and was seen eating chicken droppings. The dog was diagnosed with sialoadenitis in the right submandibular salivary gland. The following laboratory tests were performed cytology, fungal culture, blood count, search for hemoparasites, total plasma protein (ppt), alanine aminotransferase dosage (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea (U), creatinine (CREA), Albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), globulin (GLOB) and amylase (AML). In addition, the dog underwent cervical, thoracic and abdominal ultrasound, and cervical x-rays. The cytology results showed fungal sialoadenitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. The blood test results evidenced thrombocytopenia and increased ppt, TP, GLOB, and AML. The lungs and heart x-rays results showed no alterations. However, the proximal third [...]

Cryptococcal sialoadenitis in a dog

Background: Salivary gland diseases in dogs have an overall incidence of 0.3%. Sialocele and sialoadenitis are the most common injuries and are usually caused by infectious diseases, especially of bacterial origin. Currently, Cryptococcus neoformans has not been registered as the etiological agent since fungal participation is unusual. This case report describes a cryptococcal sialoadenitis in a dog. Case: A 1.9-year-old male poodle had a swelling of the right submandibular region, combined with dry cough and snoring that persisted for about 30 days. The dog often walked in the town square, which has pigeons, and was seen eating chicken droppings. The dog was diagnosed with sialoadenitis in the right submandibular salivary gland. The following laboratory tests were performed cytology, fungal culture, blood count, search for hemoparasites, total plasma protein (ppt), alanine aminotransferase dosage (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea (U), creatinine (CREA), Albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), globulin (GLOB) and amylase (AML). In addition, the dog underwent cervical, thoracic and abdominal ultrasound, and cervical x-rays. The cytology results showed fungal sialoadenitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. The blood test results evidenced thrombocytopenia and increased ppt, TP, GLOB, and AML. The lungs and heart x-rays results showed no alterations. However, the proximal third [...](AU)

Epidemiological characterization and prognostic factors in patients with confirmed cerebral cryptococcosis in central Taiwan

BackgroundCryptococcal meningitis is a deadly fungal infection. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology of cerebral cryptococcosis and to define its prognostic factors.MethodsThis cross-sectional study collected clinical information from cryptococcal meningitis patients with confirmed cerebral cryptococcosis from 2006 to 2012 at the Changhua Christian Healthcare System to access prognostic factors.ResultsFifty-nine adult cryptococcal meningitis patients were studied. The incidence at Changhua Christian Healthcare System was approximately 170 episodes per 100,000 patients within the studied period. Forty-one of 59 cryptococcal meningitis patients developed complications. Overall, 12 of 59 patients died, for a three-month mortality rate of 20.3 %. Prognostic factors positively associated with the three-month mortality included age (>55 years), patient delay, prolonged delay by the doctor in administering antifungal agent therapy, duration of intensive care unit stay, chronic lung disease, cryptococcemia, headache, altered mental status, positive blood cultures, and high cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure (>250 mm H2O).ConclusionsWe strongly recommend early administration of an antifungal agent to each suspected cryptococcal meningitis patient to decrease both the delay by doctors in administering therapy and the mortality risk. Aggressive and supportive care for severe cryptococcal meningitis patients is critical to decrease overall mortality from this infection.(AU)

Epidemiological characterization and prognostic factors in patients with confirmed cerebral cryptococcosis in central Taiwan

Background Cryptococcal meningitis is a deadly fungal infection. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology of cerebral cryptococcosis and to define its prognostic factors. Methods This cross-sectional study collected clinical information from cryptococcal meningitis patients with confirmed cerebral cryptococcosis from 2006 to 2012 at the Changhua Christian Healthcare System to access prognostic factors. Result Fifty-nine adult cryptococcal meningitis patients were studied. The incidence at Changhua Christian Healthcare System was approximately 170 episodes per 100,000 patients within the studied period. Forty-one of 59 cryptococcal meningitis patients developed complications. Overall, 12 of 59 patients died, for a three-month mortality rate of 20.3 %. Prognostic factors positively associated with the three-month mortality included age (>55 years), patient delay, prolonged delay by the doctor in administering antifungal agent therapy, duration of intensive care unit stay, chronic lung disease, cryptococcemia, headache, altered mental status, positive blood cultures, and high cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure (>250 mm H2O). Conclusions We strongly recommend early administration of an antifungal agent to each suspected cryptococcal meningitis patient to decrease both the delay by doctors in administering therapy and the mortality risk. Aggressive and supportive care for severe cryptococcal meningitis patients is critical to decrease overall mortality from this infection.(AU)

Epidemiological characterization and prognostic factors in patients with confirmed cerebral cryptococcosis in central Taiwan

Background Cryptococcal meningitis is a deadly fungal infection. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology of cerebral cryptococcosis and to define its prognostic factors. Methods This cross-sectional study collected clinical information from cryptococcal meningitis patients with confirmed cerebral cryptococcosis from 2006 to 2012 at the Changhua Christian Healthcare System to access prognostic factors. Result Fifty-nine adult cryptococcal meningitis patients were studied. The incidence at Changhua Christian Healthcare System was approximately 170 episodes per 100,000 patients within the studied period. Forty-one of 59 cryptococcal meningitis patients developed complications. Overall, 12 of 59 patients died, for a three-month mortality rate of 20.3 %. Prognostic factors positively associated with the three-month mortality included age (>55 years), patient delay, prolonged delay by the doctor in administering antifungal agent therapy, duration of intensive care unit stay, chronic lung disease, cryptococcemia, headache, altered mental status, positive blood cultures, and high cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure (>250 mm H2O). Conclusions We strongly recommend early administration of an antifungal agent to each suspected cryptococcal meningitis patient to decrease both the delay by doctors in administering therapy and the mortality risk. Aggressive and supportive care for severe cryptococcal meningitis patients is critical to decrease overall mortality from this infection.

Cryptococcus: isolamento ambiental e caracterização bioquímica / Cryptococcus: environmental isolation and biochemical characterization

O gênero Cryptococcus caracteriza-se por ser uma levedura responsável por infecção sistêmica, causada pelas espécies Cryptococcus neoformans e Cryptococcus gattii. O fungo é encontrado em substratos de origem animal e vegetal, e a infecção ocorre com a inalação de basidiósporos ou leveduras desidratadas infectantes presentes no ambiente. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo pesquisar a existência de microfocos de Cryptococcussp.em amostras ambientais da cidade de Araçatuba, São Paulo, com a finalidade de minimizar os riscos de contaminação do homem e dos animais, buscando o conhecimento da ecoepidemiologia do Cryptococcus. Foram colhidas 50 amostras oriundas de ocos e troncos de árvores (Cassiasp., Ficussp., Caesalpinea peltophorides) de 10 locais representativos do perímetro urbano, as quais foram encaminhadas ao Laboratório de Bacteriologia e Micologia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária de Araçatuba-Unesp, onde foram processadas e semeadas em placas de Petri contendo ágar semente de Níger e Sabouraud dextrose com clorafenicol e incubadas à temperatura de 30ºC, por um período não inferior a cinco dias. Posteriormente, foram submetidas às provas bioquímicas: produção de urease, termotolerância a 37ºC e quimiotipagem em ágar CGB (L-canavanina-glicina-azul de bromotimol). A análise dos resultados revelaram que 17 (34%) dos cultivos foram positivos para o gênero Cryptococcus, sendo nove (18%) para Cryptococcus gattiie oito (16%) para Cryptococcus neoformans. Outras leveduras correlacionadas, como Rhodotorula sp. e Candida sp., também foram isoladas. Conclui-se que os basidiósporos de Cryptococcusencontram-se dispersos na natureza, constituindo microfocos ambientais, não vinculados necessariamente a um único hospedeiro.(AU)

Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic fungal infection caused by Cryptococcusyeasts, especially C. neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. The fungus is found in substrates of animal and vegetable origin, and infection occurs through inhalation and seedlings present in the environment. The present study aimed to investigate the existence of microfocus Cryptococcus sp. from the environmental samples of Araçatuba city, São Paulo, featuring new niches, by decoupling the direct relationship between fungus and host in order to minimize the risk of contamination of man and animals, understanding the ecoepidemiology of Cryptococcus. Fifty samples from hollows and tree trunks were harvested (Cassia sp., Ficus sp., Caesalpinea peltophorides) from ten representatives in the urban perimeter. The samples were immediately sent to the Laboratory of Bacteriology and Mycology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Araçatuba - Unesp where they were processed and plated on Petri dishes containing agar seed Niger and Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, incubated at 30ºC for a period of no less than 5 days. Afterwards they were subimitted to biochemical tests: urease production, thermotolerance at 37°C and quimiotipagem in CGB agar (L- Canavanine-Glycine-Bromothymol blue). The results showed that 17 (34%) cultures were positive for Cryptococcus, 9 (18%) for Cryptococcus gattii and 8 (16%) for Cryptococcus neoformans. Other yeast correlated as Rhodotorula sp. and Candida sp. were isolated. We conclude that the infectious propagules of Cryptococcus are dispersed in nature and constitute an environmental microfocus, not necessarily being bound to a single host.(AU)

Cryptococcus spp. em excretas de Columba livia (pombos domésticos) provenientes de um hospital universitário no Sul do Brasil / Cryptococcus spp. in excreta of Columba livia (domestic pigeons) from a university hospital in southern Brazil

A criptococose é uma micose primariamente pulmonar, sendo adquirida por meio de inalação de propágulos fúngicos infectantes encontrados no ambiente. Um dos principais agentes etiológicos da criptococose é a espécie Cryptococcus neoformans , que apresenta distribuição mundial. O objetivo desse trabalho foi pesquisar a ocorrência de Cryptococcus spp. em excretas de Columba livia (pombos domésticos) encontradas na área externa do prédio do Hospital Universitário Dr. Miguel Riet Correa Junior, centro de referência para o tratamento da Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida na região sul do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Durante um período de dez meses, foi coletado um total de 40 amostras de excretas secas da área acadêmica e da área hospitalar do Hospital Universitário. As excretas foram adicionadas de solução salina com cloranfenicol, homogeneizados em vórtex, semeados em ágar Níger e incubados a 25ºC com observações diárias até sete dias. A identificação do micro-organismo foi realizada por provas fenotípicas e bioquímicas. Das 40 amostras processadas e analisadas, 13 (32,5%) foram positivas para o isolamento de Cryptococcus spp., variando de 20.000 a 3.000.000 UFC/g de fezes. O isolamento desse fungo em um ambiente hospitalar é relevante em saúde pública, pois evidencia a exposição dos indivíduos que frequentam esse local a propágulos infectantes.(AU)

Cryptococcosis is primarily a pulmonary mycosis, being acquired by inhalation of infective fungal propagules found in the environment. One of the main etiological agents of cryptococcosis is the yeast Cryptococcus neoformans , which has worldwide distribution and whose natural habitat is the feces of birds. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Cryptococcus spp. in excreta of Columba livia (domestic pigeon) found in the outer area of the building of Hospital Universitário Dr. Miguel Riet Correa Junior, a reference center for the treatment of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome in southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. During a period of ten months, a total of 40 samples of dried excreta was collected from the site's academic area and hospital. To the excreta, were added saline solution with chloramphenicol, homogenized in a vortex, cultivated in Niger seed agar and incubated at 25°C with daily observations up to seven days. The identification of the microorganism was performed by phenotypical and biochemical tests. From the 40 samples processed and analyzed, 13 (32.5%) were positive for the isolation of Cryptococcus spp., with the quantity of yeasts ranging from 20.000 to 3.000.000 CFU/g of feces. Isolation of the opportunistic fungus Cryptococcus spp. at a university hospital is relevant in public health for demonstrating the exposure of individuals who frequent this site to infectant propagules.(AU)