Eumycotic mycetoma caused by Pseudallescheria boydii in a dog

Abstract

Abdominal eumycotic mycetoma caused by Pseudallescheria boydii was diagnosed in a 3-year-old male Siberian Husky. The dog was examined because of weight loss and signs of depression. Initially, pyrexia was the only clinical finding. Antibiotic and corticosteroid treatment was ineffective. Two weeks later, the dog's appetite had decreased, it had vomited a few times, and the caudal portion of the abdomen was sensitive to palpation. Hematologic and serum biochemical abnormalities consisted of anemia, leukocytosis, hypoglycemia, hypoalbuminemia, hyperglobulinemia, and high alkaline phosphatase activity. One week later, the dog's condition continued to worsen, and testicular swelling was observed. The dog was castrated. Microscopic examination of specimens obtained at surgery revealed pyogranulomatous periorchitis with mycetoma granules. Ketoconazole treatment was initiated and continued until the dog died one month later. Necropsy revealed multifocal duodenal ulcers, with transmural pyogranulomatous enteritis, pancreatitis, and peritonitis. This case is unique because the etiologic agent apparently entered via the intestinal tract rather than by contamination of an external wound.