TRICHOPHYTON Mentagrophytes infection in European hedgehogs
KEVIN EATWELL
Exotic Animal and Wildlife Service, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh, Scotland
Ringworm caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. eri- nacei is the only significant dermatophyte infection of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europeaus).
It is endemic in European hedgehogs and is carried by up to 50% of individuals, often as a subclinical infection, and is found throughout the range of this species in Europe (16). Transmission can be direct and infection is more evident in urban hedgehogs, which typically have smaller home ranges, and in males with larger home ranges and greater social interac- tions(17). Infected spines may be driven into another hedgehog when fighting(18). Older hedgehogs appear to have a much higher incidence compared with those under 1 year of age(18). Caparinia tripilis mites have been implicated in transmission of T. mentagrophytes var. erinacei, as fungi have been recovered from their faeces(19). The fungal spores persist in nests and transmission may occur indirectly via shared nesting sites and home ranges(20). Transmission from mother to offspring is also possible(18).Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. erninacei infection can lead to a subclinical infection with no skin lesions evident, or spine loss, scabs and scurf, particularly in the skirt area or spine fur margin. Affected spines can easily be epilated.
In severe cases cracked crusty lesions can occur, typically on the snout, ears and head, which bleed when the scabs are lifted. Chronic disease can lead to thickening and hyperpigmentation. Pruritis is seen infrequently. Concurrent disease, with Caparinia tripilis mites or bacterial infections, are common findings1-21). The incubation could be over a 3 month period and the disease can take several weeks to months to progress1-18).
Confirmation of infection is by isolation and culture. Treatment typically involves the use of systemic antifungals such as griseofulvin (30—50 mg/kg once daily), itraconazole (10 mg/kg once daily) or terbinafine (10—30 mg/kg once daily) given orally for 2—6 weeks. Topical antifungal therapy is also commonly employed using enilconazole 0.2% dilution, F10® disinfectant (Health and Hygiene (Pty) Ltd) or miconazole. Repeat culture is required to confirm clearance of the infection.
This has been a well-recognized zoonotic disease since the late 19th century, with a number of reports of infected human handlers — resulting from handling without gloves. Lesions may not be typical of human ringworm, however, but are intensely pruritic.