Disseminated histoplasmosis in an imported Maine Coon cat in western continental Europe

Elisabeth M. Burgers*, Giorgia Santarelli, Wilhelmina Bergmann, Eelco F.J. Meijer, Stefanie Veraa

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

A 4-year-old, male, neutered Maine Coon presented with a 9-month history of weight loss, tachypnoea, dyspnoea and lethargy. The patient had been in the owner's possession since kittenhood in Texas, and 20 months before presentation had moved to Europe, living first in France and then the Netherlands. A bronchoalveolar lavage performed by the referring veterinarian cultured positive for Mycoplasma (unknown species), and treatment was initiated with minimal response. Sequential referring radiographs showed progressive diffuse pulmonary broncho-interstitial changes. At presentation, focused echocardiogram suggested moderate likelihood of pulmonary hypertension. Repeat thoracic radiographs showed markedly progressed pulmonary changes, with a new miliary component. Bloodwork showed hypergammaglobulinaemia. Pending additional diagnostic results, the patient passed away within 4 days. Postmortem examination was compatible with severe chronic pyogranulomatous pneumonia with pleuritis, splenitis, hepatitis and adrenalitis, with histopathological identification of intracytoplasmic fungal elements. Sequencing of pulmonary granulomatous tissue confirmed the presence of Histoplasma capsulatum.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere761
Number of pages6
JournalVeterinary Record Case Reports
Volume12
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023 The Authors. Veterinary Record Case Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Veterinary Association.

Keywords

  • cats
  • diagnostic imaging
  • fungal diseases
  • histoplasmosis
  • radiography
  • respiratory disease

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