Phaeohyphomycosis caused by Trematosphaeria grisea in an immunocompromised English springer spaniel

Abstract

A 10-year-old, male, farm-based springer spaniel that presented with subacute progressive left-sided central vestibular signs was diagnosed with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin. The patient received prednisolone (2 mg/kg/day orally), ciclosporin (5 mg/kg orally twice a day) and a single infusion of cytarabine (200 mg/m2). Six weeks later, neurological signs had resolved, but multiple cutaneous nodules developed on the limbs, trunk and face. Lesions discharged a dark purulent material without tissue grains. A ‘filamentous fungus’ was isolated, but discarded without identification. Aspirates from nodules showed pigmented, septate fungal hyphae, and culture of aspirates yielded Trematosphaeria grisea. Itraconazole (5 mg/kg once a day) and gradual tapering of immunosuppressive drugs led to resolution of nodular lesions over 4 months without neurological relapse. A fungal granuloma developed transiently 8 months after starting itraconazole. Immunosuppressive drugs were stopped 15 months after introduction without neurological relapse. Itraconazole was withdrawn 8 weeks later, 5 months after last relapse of skin disease.