• Ringworm is common, challenging

  • Ringworm, or dermatophytosis, is not a worm but a fungus that can infect skin, hair and nails; it can affect animals and people.
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    It appears in dogs and cats as areas of hair loss with or without a red ring in the center.
    Generally, the lesions occur on the head, ears, or front legs; but can be anywhere on the body. It is also possible for a pet to be a carrier for ringworm, meaning they do not show any symptoms, but are still shedding spores and can spread illness to others. This is most common in long-haired exotic cats.
    Animals contract ringworm via contact with other infected animals, carrier animals or from the environment. The spores are very tough, and can survive on surfaces for a year. Young, geriatric, and immuno-compromised pets are the most susceptible.
    There are several species of dermatopytes; but microsporum canis is the most common to infect dogs and cats. Generally, patients that are infected are not itchy; and the incubation time from contact to symptoms is 10 to 12 days.
    A Wood's lamp is a fluorescent light that can shine green on skin surfaces when ringworm is present. It has a low percentage of accuracy with false positives and false negatives, so other methods such as a fungal culture or cytology are more heavily relied upon. Occasionally, it is diagnosed on a biopsy. Response to treatment is also important.
    Therapy involves a multitude of strategies depending upon the severity of symptoms.
    Medicated baths or mousses are frequently used to help kill ringworm. All pets in the household should be bathed to prevent the spreading of spores, even if they are not symptomatic.
    At one time, dips were commonly used but are no longer, and can be harmful.
    Shaving, especially in long-haired cats, can help to better treat the base of the hair follicles and allow for a quicker resolution. Topical antifungal creams may be recommended as well. Oral antifungals can be used; but there can be liver concerns with this treatment, so it is utilized judiciously. Treatment generally is needed for at least four to six weeks and should continue for at least two weeks past the resolution of symptoms.
    Long-haired exotic cats should continue to be bathed in antifungal shampoo because they are considered to be in a continual carrier state.
    Other home care items include confining the dogs or cats and not letting them on the furniture or human beds to prevent the shedding of spores. Pet bedding should be washed with detergent and hot water at least weekly. Surfaces can be cleaned with a 10 percent bleach solution. Frequent vacuuming helps to remove infected hair and skin. Steam cleaning of the carpets is also beneficial.
    People with symptoms should see their doctor.
    Although ringworm can be self-limiting, meaning it can resolve on its own, it can take several months. It can be a very challenging disease to manage, depending on the number of animals in the home, as well as their level of health.
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