DERMATOPHYTOSIS IN DOGS AND CATS AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

The main agents that cause dermatophytosis in dogs and cats in Brazil and in the world belong to the genus Microsporum, which also affects humans, causing skin infections, such as Tinea capitis and Tinea corporis. The aim of this study was to review the literature on dermatophytosis in companion animals, highlighting its importance as a zoonosis in public health. The symptoms of this public interest’s pathology, forms of treatment in animals and methods of control were presented. Twenty-two articles were chosen for analysis and reflection on dermatophytosis and the important factors in the spread of this disease. The result of this literature revision showed that zoonoses have such a great importance for the population’s health. Other conclusion is that more researches about these dermatophytes and their results are necessary, in order to provide access to more people, so that they can be aware to the disease’s suggestive signs, and look for a professional in the area for control and eradication, in order to guarantee public prevention.