Disseminated Scytalidium philadelphianum infection in a Belgian Malinois

Abstract

We report disseminated mycosis in a Belgian Malinois caused by Scytalidium philadelphianum. The dog presented for progressive hindlimb weakness after diagnosis of suspected bacterial discospondylitis. Magnetic resonance imaging combined with radiographs revealed multifocal discospondylitis, osteomyelitis, and spondylitis with epidural empyema. Scytalidium philadelphianum was identified on culture and DNA sequencing of urine and fine needle aspirates of affected disc spaces. Aggressive therapy including amphotericin B liposomal complex, micafungin, and azoles were initiated, but the dog was euthanized seven months later due to progressive neurologic disease. This is the first report of disseminated disease by Scytalidium philadelphianum in veterinary medicine.