Common superficial and deep cutaneous bacterial infections in domestic animals: A review

Abstract

The skin covers the external surface of animals, and it is constantly exposed to and inhabited by different microorganisms, including bacteria. Alterations in the skin barrier allow commensal and/or pathogenic bacteria to proliferate and penetrate deep into the lower layers of the skin. Being the first barrier to the external environment, the skin is prone to injuries, allowing the penetration of microorganisms that may lead to severe deep infections. Companion animals, especially dogs, are prone to bacterial infections, often secondary to allergic dermatitis. When environmental conditions are unfavorable, horses, cattle, sheep, and goats can develop superficial infections, such as those caused by Dermatophilus congolensis. Deep inflammation is commonly caused by Mycobacterium spp., which results in granulomatous to pyogranulomatous dermatitis and panniculitis. Likewise, bacteria such as Nocardia spp. and Actinomyces spp. can cause deep pyogranulomatous inflammation. Bacteria that lead to deep necrotizing lesions (eg, necrotizing fasciitis/flesh-eating bacteria) can be severe and even result in death. This review includes an overview of the most common cutaneous bacterial infections of domestic animals, highlighting the main features and histologic morphology of the bacteria, cutaneous structures involved, and the type of inflammatory infiltrates.