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Aspergillosis In Dogs

Aspergillosis In Dogs - Information on Causes, Symptoms and Treatment For Aspergillosis In Dogs


Aspergillosis in dogs is usually nasal aspergillosis.



It is a fungal infection that occurs in the nasal cavity. This infection is caused by the fungus Aspergillius fumigates Aspergillis terreus. This fungus is present all over the world and can affect birds and animals too.    

Causes and Symptoms of Aspergillosis In Dogs


Causes of aspergillosis in dogs are also the spores of the fungus. These spores are present everywhere and your dog is likely to get infected if it has a compromised or weakened immunity system.  Aspergillosis in dogs causes symptoms runny noses, nasal discharge and ulcers on the nose.



The symptoms of this infection are largely in the nasal and paranasal cavities for a dog.

Sometimes the lesions can be grows lesions but there is not apparent cause for this. Not all dogs with this fungal infection get similar lesions.

Occasionally the dog can also feel pain and irritation over these lesions.



Dogs with long snouts tend to be more prone to nasal aspergillosis. The dog can also become lethargic and depressed. Sometimes the dog can also develop disseminated aspergillosis which is the case when symptoms show up somewhere else instead of the origin of infection. This condition usually happens in German Shepherds. Symptoms of this form of aspergillosis include weight loss, loss of appetite, urinary incontinence and neurological problems. Lesions can appear on important organs like spleen, kidneys and even the spinal vertebrae. There is also a generalized aspergillosis but that can be quite rare in dogs.

Treatment For Aspergillosis In Dogs


There are different imaging and diagnostic tests that can determine if your dog is suffering from this form of fungal infection. Treatment for aspergillosis in dogs includes nasal infusions of antibiotics. The intensity and frequency can vary based on how intensity of the infection. Along with medication the doctor could also provide anti fungal topical medication. Ensure that you are regular with the application and follow the care program properly. Keep your dog’s bedding and area clean and disinfected through the treatment.

In really severe cases, surgery is also an option for this fungal infection. If the dog is suffering from disseminated aspergillosis, treatment will depend on which organ has suffered damage. Pain relief is also an important of this treatment for disseminated aspergillosis. Survival for dogs with aspergillosis is usually very encouraging but dogs who suffer from disseminated aspergillosis are usually given a guarded prognosis even if their treatment has been good. The damage to organ systems is usually irreversible.

 
  Submitted on February 14, 2012  
 
 
 

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