Pythiosis is a fungal infection caused by the water mold Pythium insidiosum. Although the condition is uncommon, it can be fatal in cats and dogs.
Causes of Pythiosis
Pythiosis is caused by exposure to Pythium insidiosum spores that are found in stagnant water, particularly throughout the southern United States. The organism can enter the body through the nose, mouth, or sinuses. In addition, Pythium insidiosum spores can penetrate damaged skin. Most pets contract pythiosis by swimming in bodies of standing water such as swamps or ponds.
Symptoms of Pythiosis
Symptoms of pythiosis can vary, depending on the area of the body that’s affected. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of the condition.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Masses
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Skin ulceration
- Skin lesions or nodules
Diagnosis of Pythiosis
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset of their symptoms. Please provide information about your pet’s recent activities, especially if they have been exposed to water.
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet to check for clinical signs of pythiosis such as abdominal masses. Other diagnostic tests may include a urinalysis, a complete blood count, and a biochemistry profile. These tests will help your veterinarian assess your pet’s overall health and rule out other causes of their symptoms.
Since pythiosis can be difficult to detect, a series of additional tests will usually be carried out. These may include biopsies, serological testing, and imaging techniques such as X-rays and ultrasounds. The purpose of these tests is to rule out other health conditions and help your veterinarian reach a presumptive diagnosis of pythiosis. Other specialized tests such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test will be performed if a definitive diagnosis is required.
Treatment of Pythiosis
Unfortunately, pythiosis is often fatal unless treated in its early stages. The most common treatment method is surgical removal of infected tissue. Oral or topical antifungal medications may also be given in some cases.
Most pets diagnosed with pythiosis will require hospitalization to receive fluid and antibiotic therapy. Your veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment methods based on your pet’s overall health and condition.
Prevention of Pythiosis
The best way to protect your pet against pythiosis is by preventing exposure to water that may be contaminated with Pythium insidiosum spores. Do not allow your pet to swim in bodies of standing water and discourage them from drinking from puddles or other stagnant water sources. Finally, please speak to your veterinarian about vaccinating your pet against pythiosis and schedule regular checkups to monitor your pet’s health.
