Tuba Iram,
- NPD Executive, Research and Development, CG Corp Global (Wai Wai) Noodles, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a significant yet often underestimated challenge in veterinary medicine, affecting both livestock and companion animals. Veterinary mycology encompasses a diverse group of pathogens, including yeasts, molds, dimorphic fungi, and dermatophytes, that can cause localized or systemic diseases with substantial health, economic, and zoonotic implications. In livestock species, such as cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, pigs, horses, and camels, fungal infections manifest as dermatophytosis, mycotic mastitis, aspergillosis, keratomycosis, and candidiasis, leading to reduced productivity, compromised animal welfare, and increased treatment costs. Companion animals, particularly dogs and cats, are equally susceptible to fungal diseases, including cryptococcosis, sporotrichosis, blastomycosis, and ringworm, some of which carry zoonotic potential and pose risks to veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners. The pathogenesis of fungal infections is complex, involving host immune status, fungal virulence mechanisms such as spore formation and biofilm development, and environmental factors. Accurate diagnosis is essential and relies on a combination of classical techniques – microscopy, culture, serology – and modern molecular tools such as polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. Treatment options include azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins; however, antifungal resistance, drug toxicity, and cost limitations present persistent challenges. Preventive strategies emphasize biosecurity, hygiene, and emerging research into vaccines and immunotherapies. From a public health perspective, veterinary fungal diseases align closely with the One Health concept, highlighting interconnected risks to humans, animals, and the environment. With climate change, globalization, and antimicrobial resistance influencing fungal epidemiology, the importance of surveillance, early diagnosis, and innovative therapeutics is increasing. This review summarizes current knowledge on fungal infections in livestock and companion animals, explores diagnostic and therapeutic advancements, and highlights future directions for integrated control strategies to safeguard animal health, food security, and public health.
Keywords: Veterinary mycology, fungal infections, livestock diseases, companion animals, dermatophytosis
[This article belongs to Research and Reviews : Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology ]
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| Volume | 14 | |
| Issue | 03 | |
| Received | 15/09/2025 | |
| Accepted | 18/09/2025 | |
| Published | 19/09/2025 | |
| Publication Time | 4 Days |