Fungal Fun Facts: Blastomycosis

There is a fungus among us! We are exposed to fungal spores daily, and so are our pets. Over the next few weeks, I thought we’d take a look at the various types of fungal organisms we may encounter. Some are merely annoying while others can be quite serious.

 

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Blastomycosis is one of the more serious fungal infections. This particular fungus is primarily located in Missouri, Tennessee, Ohio and along the Mississippi River. It prefers to grow in areas with wet soil. Once inhaled, it can spread to various parts of the body. While it can affect any animal, dogs seem to be the most severely and most frequently affected. It cannot be transmitted to other animals or people, but if these animals were exposed to the same environment they could contract this organism as well. 

 

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General symptoms are vague and include loss of appetite, decreased energy and a significantly elevated temperature. Symptoms will vary depending on where the organisms start to grow in the body. Some of the more commonly affected organs include the eyes, lungs, bones and skin. The eyes will typically become very irritated, sometimes with swelling and discharge. Coughing is typically seen when the lungs are affected. If x-rays of the lungs are taken it is often referred to as a ‘snow storm’ affected because it is difficult to discern normal structures. With joints typically there will be limping and extreme pain. In severe cases it can even cause fractures of the bones. Skin lesions typically will develop draining tracts that will not respond to antibiotics and have a very thick discharge.

 

Snow Storm appearance to lungs. (Image Source)

There are treatment options, however depending on the severity of the condition treatment is not always successful. Long term use (sometimes months) of anti-fungal medications are often required to alleviate the symptoms. It is also important to maintain a healthy immune system. This means a good balanced diet, and avoiding medications (such as steroids) that could inhibit the immune system. In some severe ocular (eye) cases it is necessary to remove the eye to keep the patient comfortable.

 

Cytology identifying blastomycosis. (Image Source)

There are a variety of tests that can be done to detect the fungal spores in the body. These include biopsies, sometimes cytology (looking at the cells under a microscope), blood tests or even urine tests. With this being such a serious condition though, sometimes treatment will be started before test results are available. The sooner treatment is initiated the more likely for a better outcome. For more information on Blastomycosis please click here.