Usage of inactivated microsporum canis vaccine in cats naturally infected with M. canis

Abstract

The aim: In the present study the aim was to investigate the efficiency of inactivated M. canis vaccine in cats naturally infected with M. canis. Material and methods: 38 long-haired cats at the age of 6 months-6 years, naturally infected with M. canis were included in the present study. At physical examination well-circumscribed areas of alopecia and overflowed circumscribed dark color lesions especially on the head (between ear, pinna and neck), front paws, dorsal and lateral trunk and back, in some cats moist, chapped and itchy lesions and otitis were detected. Microbiological culture from the lesions was positive only for M. canis. The cats were treated with inactivated M. canis vaccine (Biocan-M-Micanfin, Bioveta) 15 days apart for 2 times and 11 cats did not received any therapy. Results: In all of the cats vaccinated the lesions improved gradually within 15 days after vaccination. Complete clinical remission was detected and all cats became culture negative within 28 days. No clinical healing was observed in untreated 11 control cats. By day 70 a new and healthy cat, detected to have no lesions consistent with dermatophytosis and negative culture result, was introduced into the same house within the vaccinated cats. After being introduced the cats were recultured by day 90 and all of the vaccinated cats and the new cat were detected to have negative culture results. No recurrency was observed within 10 months after therapy. Conclusion: Results of the present study indicate that inactivated M. canis vaccine may be a safe and effective therapy for M. canis infection. Copyright © 2006 Cornetis.