Microsporum canis infection in a red fox (Vulpes vulpes)

Abstract

A 3-month-old male red fox that was in contact with a Persian cat referred to the small animal hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran with multi-focal circular non-pruritic skin lesions and hair loss mainly on the head and extremities. A complete series of dermatologic tests such as Wood's light examination, direct microscopic examination, and fungal culture were performed. The isolated pathogen was identified as Microsporum canis. The animal was treated using topical and systemic ketoconazole for 4 weeks. After treatment, the lesions were completely disappeared, and there was no recurrence of skin lesions during the follow-up period. It should be noted that asymptomatic cats may carry M. canis, thus may increase the risk of fungal infections for their owners and other pets as well. This is the first documented report of M.canis infection and its treatment in a red fox.