Yeast Pathogens of Domestic Animals

Abstract

Mycoses of domestic animals caused by yeasts have been recorded for approximately 150 years. The majority of these infections are cutaneous and superficial and are of minor clinical significance but fatal systemic infections are also reported. Currently, most common pathogenic yeasts of domestic animals are included in the genera Candida, Cryptococcus and Malassezia and they are reviewed in depth in this chapter. Candida and Cryptococcus species continue to cause sporadic mycoses in animals. However, in comparison to the high number of cases of candidiasis and cryptococcosis reported in humans, they are uncommon mycoses reported in veterinary medicine. However, during the last two decades, interest in the genus Malassezia amongst mycologists and veterinary dermatolo- gists has increased considerably. A controversial pathogen as Malassezia pachy- dermatis is now recognized as an important cause of dermatitis and otitis externa in dogs. However, very little is known about the pathogenic role of the lipid- dependent Malassezia species in animal skin.