Pythiosis is a chronic granulomatous disease, mainly of the subcutaneous tissue, caused by the Oomycete Pythium insidiosum. The disease affects humans and several domestic animal species, representing a potential hazard to human and animal health. Horses are the most affected species and equine pythiosis has been frequently described in Brazil. The disease is characterized by unresponsiveness to traditional therapies since anti-fungal drugs are not active against P. insidiosum. Recently, immunotherapy has emmerged as a promising therapy. An early and accurate diagnosis is pivotal towards a successfull treatment. This article reviews the main mycological, epidemiological clinical and pathological aspects of pythiosis in different species. The currently available diagnostic techniques and the therapeutical perspectives are also discussed.
pitiose; Pythium insidiosum; eqüino; imunoterapia; Oomicetos