Necrotic ulcerative dermatitis due to simultaneous infections of Malassezia and Microsporum gallinae in a pigeon (Columba livia domestica)

Abstract

A homing pigeon (Columba livia domestica) was referred with the presence of ulceration, bleeding, loss of feathers and scabs and crust in the head. Mycological evaluation was shown simultaneous infections by Malassezia and Microsporum gallinae. Pathological findings revealed severe and deep necrotic skin lesions associated with fungal hyphae and especially numerous yeasts. It was concluded that keratinophilic fungi, especially dermatophytes in skin and feathers of birds can cause severe lesions and be a potential source of spread of disease in the human population and animals. It also suggests considering the role of Malassezia spp. as a risk factor in the development of skin lesions and the emergence and exacerbation of infections such as dermatophytes.

Keywords

• malassezia
• microsporum gallinae
• pigeon
• skin lesions
• pathology