Diseases cause by fungi

Question 1

What is Ringworm?

Answer 1

A skin condition cause by fungus, in cattle and sheep

Question 2

Name the fungus that causes Ringworm

Answer 2

Trichophyton verrucosum

Question 3

How is Ringworm (Trichophyton verricosum) transmitted between animals?

Answer 3

1. Direct contact between animals
2. Direct contact with infected objects (fomites)

Question 4

Which animals are most susceptible to Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum)?

Answer 4

1. Animals < 1 year of age
2. Intesively housed animals
3. Animals with reduced resistance

Question 5

T/F: Humans can contract Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum)

Answer 5

True:

Humans can contract Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum) AND act as a carrier from one herd to the next

Question 6

List the common clinical signs of Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum)

Answer 6

1. Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum) occurs most commonly on the face, first
2. Small, white-grey
3. Crusted, round areas on the skin
   
   • Crust falls off = round, hairless area that keeps growing

Question 7

T/F: Lesions cause by Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum) are itchy.

Answer 7

False:

Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum) lesions may be slightly painful but DO NOT itch.

Question 8

How will you diagnose Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum)?

Answer 8

1. Typical appearance of the lesions
2. Microscopic demonstration of the fungus (Trichophyton verrucosum) with a hair pluck sample
3. Microscopic demonstration of the fungus (Trichophyton verrucosum) after a skin biopsy
4. Wood’s lamp - if possible/available

Question 9

How will you treat Ringworm (Trichophyton verrucosum)?

Answer 9

1. Daily povidone-iodine spray on the lesions - milder cases
2. Affected animals must be isolated while being treated until hair starts to regrow
3. Plunge dips can be used in more severe outbreaks
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