Coinfection with Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium spp. in black-necked swan (Cygnus melancoryphus) kept under human care - case report

[Coinfecção com Aspergillus fumigatus e Penicillium spp. em cisne-de-pescoço-preto (Cygnus melancoryphus) mantido sob cuidados humanos - relato de caso]

ABSTRACT

Fungal diseases resistant to antifungal agents in animals are a growing concern, making the study of these infections crucial for early detection of antifungal resistance in both animals and humans. Aspergillosis, which affects immunocompromised humans, domestic and wild animals, birds and even in vertebrates, is one such infection. The aim of this study was to identify the causative agent of the fungal infection and assess its antifungal resistance. Using a sterile swab, a sample was collected from the lesion in the air sacs during thes post-mortem analysis of a black-necked swan (Cygnus melancoryphus). Laboratory test revealed the presence of the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and the genus Penicillium spp. To evaluateantifungal resistance, a susceptibility test was performed using the disk diffusion method with application of four antifungals: itraconazole 10 μg , nystatin 100 IU, fluconazole 25 μg, and ketoconazole 50 μg. It was found that the fungi were resistant to the antifungals used in the study. This study is important for better therapy using antifungal drugs in patients with clinical signs or suspected fungal disease.

Keywords:
antifungal resistance; wild bird; fungus; public health